By Hannah Lynn, Contributing Writer
Is casting a vote without all the information in a person’s best interest? With the 2024 presidential election coming up, it is more important now than ever to research and be informed before casting that vote.
With how divided the presidential candidates are, citizens are watching this election closely, much like they have been in recent years to see which way the country will go in terms of what policies would be passed, and what life would be like in the United States.
According to a Reuters article, “The democrats running for office include Joe Biden, who is the current president and incumbent for this election, along with Marianne Williamson, and Dean Phillips. The Republican candidates that are running are former President Donald Trump and Nikki Haley.”
While there are many political issues to think about before casting that vote, Luigi Meshino, apolitical science major at Saint Leo University, shared his thoughts.
“The most important political debate issue for this election cycle is gun rights. As students, we are the up-and-coming generation. We have a civic duty to vote, even if we disagree. It is our God-given right to vote and to be the change people wish to see in the world.”
Frank Orlando, a political science instructor at Saint Leo University, shared his thoughts on the upcoming election.
“Everyone has a different set of beliefs and what they consider important. People have an issue they feel is important, many people are focusing their vote on the presidential candidate’s personality, charisma, vibes, and not looking into the candidates’ political beliefs and looking beyond the personality,” Orlando remarked.
While many people believe that presidential candidates in the same political party have the same beliefs, it is important to remember that even though candidates may take the same stance on a particular issue, it does not always mean they all agree on everything. Each candidate may feel differently about how issues should be handled.
For example, republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently dropped out of the presidential race, and Nikki Haley, feel differently about foreign policy issues. It is important to watch the presidential debates and keep informed before casting that vote in 2024.
“Even though the presidential candidates are mostly focusing on issues that are important to the reliable older voter, there are lots of different ways that young people can get their voices heard regarding political issues that are important to them,” Orlando stated. “It depends on how far you want to get involved, one of the more straightforward ways is voting and joining social media groups that support your cause. Other ways would be giving political donations and working on campaign advocacy,” Orlando continued.
To vote in the presidential election, one needs to register. For Florida, the requirements of registration and voting dates can be found here.
According to the Flagler County supervisor of elections, “There are three main elections in 2024, Presidential Preference Primary: on March 19, 2024, Primary Election: August 20, 2024, and the General Election: November 5, 2024.”
Voting is a vital part of being an American citizen and it requires an informed decision.
