By Amanda Elizalde, Onya Favorite, Connor Schaal & Isabella Vargas
If you’re one of the many following this election campaign, you’ve seen that both sides are putting up a fight, regardless of where your support lies. In a landscape where it’s hard to know what's fact and what's fake, it’s important to stay informed and understand what each side offers you as a citizen.
This election cycle has been saturated with advertisements and campaigns, especially on social media, bringing the younger generation front and center. With more of Gen Z now eligible to vote, we’re seeing a rise in young people using social media to keep up with the election. This shift highlights the power of each voice and how vital it is to understand the impact of voting.
According to Pew Research Center, the Democratic Party has an edge with younger voters, while older demographics lean Republican. You are not alone. Many people are speaking up for what they believe in, and they’re encouraging each other to be confident and vocal. Use your voice to advocate for the changes you want.
Over 41 million members of Generation Z are eligible to vote in the 2024 election, and a significant number have aligned with the Democratic Party. This generation is among the most diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality.
Gen Z has witnessed major issues—school shootings, climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, the end of DEI and affirmative action programs, and inflation—shaping their perspectives on gun violence, healthcare, reproductive rights, and racial equity. As they step into adulthood, these issues resonate deeply.
We are also seeing a rise in Gen Z using social media to get the news out. This allows a broader audience to be informed if they aren't caught up on the news. While a TikTok video or Instagram post can spread awareness, actual change only happens at the polls. Voting can feel intimidating, especially for first-timers, but your vote is what matters most.
Public figures like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé have endorsed Kamala Harris, while Elon Musk and Kanye West have shown support for Donald Trump. It’s best to do your own research, however, and make a choice that reflects your views, not just a celebrity endorsement.
"Your vote is the only thing that ensures we have leaders who will be responsible," activist John Pavlovitz stated in a Twitter post.
One of the best things you can do is to stay informed, verifying facts and sources. Mount Saint Mary’s University has hosted many voting events since the start of the semester, helping students understand how to exercise their voices. For upcoming events, check out MSMU Engage, and explore the university website, where you’ll find links on how and where to vote. There's even rides to the polls on November 5.
This election season may feel like one of the year’s most stressful times, but remember, we’re here to support you. Many resources are at your fingertips to keep you informed. And if you’re feeling nervous as a first-time voter, just know that plenty of others have been in your shoes.