The 2024 Presidential Election: Five Things Every College Student Should Know
Touro NYSCAS Political Science Professor Robin Brooks Ishler Highlights Vital Information to Prepare for Election Day
As the 2024 presidential election is only months away with Election Day on November 5, 2024, college students around the country have the unique opportunity to cast their ballots to shape the future of our nation. Whether it’s a student’s first time voting, or they’re seasoned pros when it comes to exercising their democratic right, there are several important things to be mindful of before heading to the polls. Here are the top 5 things to know.
1. Why Voting Matters
Sometimes, the policies made by our lawmakers don’t seem to affect our day-to-day lives, but this is not the case. Every choice made by our government on both the national and local levels directly impact all of us. The amount of taxes that you pay, your access to healthcare and social services, the safety of the food you eat and the water you drink, and even the price of the products you see on the shelves at your local supermarket are influenced by the decisions of our political leadership. Voting gives citizens the opportunity to impact all these factors and more by helping to choose leaders that represent their values and ideologies. Voting is the only direct way to let your voice be heard by our elected officials and to hold our leaders accountable for their future decisions.
2. Don’t Delay, Register to Vote Today
Registering to vote is easier than you might think. First, check to ensure you meet the basic requirements as you must be at least 18 years old by at the time of the election a U.S. citizen, and a resident of the state you’re planning to vote in for at least 30 days before the election. Each state has differing deadlines for voter registration and absentee ballot requests so if you aren’t a New York state resident, check out your home state’s requirements. If you meet the criteria listed above, you can register to vote with just a few clicks or get more information about where you can register to vote in person.
3. What Are the Candidate’s Positions on Key Policy Issues?
Political views can be complicated, and it’s important to conduct your own research about what each of the candidates thinks. Check out what Kamala Harris has to say about expanding access to affordable healthcare and criminal justice reform, and the policies of Donald Trump on American businesses, workers and more.
4. What Else is on the Ballot?
Besides choosing the next president, voters have the power to influence many important choices that will have a direct impact on their local communities. Two important items that will be on the ballot if you live anywhere in New York are the U.S. Senate election and a proposed amendment to the New York State Constitution regarding equal protection. If you live near the 3 Times Square campus in NYC, you can also vote in the U.S. House of Representatives election (District 12), the New York State Senate election (District 28), the New York State Assembly election (District 75), and the New York City Civil Court election. You can see the ballot specific to your local area, but remember that what you see on your ballot depends on where you reside.
5. Where Can I Get More Information About the Election?
- Read more about the proposed constitutional amendment in New York.
- Find out more details about incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand’s campaign and challenger Mike Sapraicone.
- Learn more about about your NY representatives.
Casting your vote for the next president is not something that should be taken lightly. It’s imperative that college students remain informed and educated on an array of vital issues, so they’re empowered to vote in the upcoming election with confidence.
