Young Voters Could Decide the 2024 Election
MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle sat down with a group of students at Rutgers University in New Jersey, most of whom will be voting for the first time, to find out what issues are driving their vote — and what questions they’d ask the candidates. Among those interviewed was Bloustein School Public Policy (PP ’25, MPP ’26) student Freyja Quinn.
A recent poll shows Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are tied in the upcoming presidential race, with Harris having an edge among younger voters. Many of these young voters are casting their ballots for the first time, and their enthusiasm is palpable. Students from Rutgers University express excitement, though some also share a sense of nervousness due to the political polarization surrounding the election. Despite concerns about the candidates, many are motivated by key issues like LGBTQ rights, healthcare, immigration, and the economy. However, students have noted a lack of direct engagement from the campaigns regarding their policy stances.
On college campuses like Rutgers, political conversations can be difficult due to the fear of social backlash, especially for those supporting Trump in a predominantly progressive environment. Social media plays a significant role in shaping political views, but some worry it creates ideological echo chambers. While students acknowledge the Harris campaign’s strength in social media outreach, they feel that both campaigns could do more to communicate policy goals directly to young voters, particularly in non-battleground states. Many feel that the focus on personalities in politics often overshadows meaningful discussions on policy.
As Quinn says, “There’s just something about the aura of the presidential election that is heightened in ways we do not fully get to understand until we are able to cast our ballot.”