As the polls wrap up with their final voters, students shared their hopes and concerns for the results of the 2024 election.
Currently, the Democratic party has an assumed 226 electoral votes while the Republican party has an assumed 230.
“It’s surprisingly neck and neck,” Yuliana Galindo, UMKC freshman and film major said. “A lot more than I thought it would be.”
CBS News provided two possible paths this election could result in. Elections and surveys director Anthony Salvanto presented one scenario of 2020 non-voters voting which could result in 281 electoral votes for the Republican party and 257 for the Democratic party. In another scenario based on gender, the projected outcome could be 308 electoral votes for Democrats and 230 for Republicans.
“I have a strong feeling Kamala will win,” UMKC freshman and civil engineering major Aiden Young said. “The turnout so far makes sense, especially because of the amount of Gen Z voters.”
In a poll presented by NBC News in September, results showed half of Gen Z voters would be voting for Kamala Harris while one third would be voting for Donald Trump. The majority of Gen Z’s motivation for voting is fueled by specific policies such as reproductive rights, a growing concern as we near election day.
Amendment Three was a prominent, recurring concern that was brought up while speaking to students. A study provided by JAMA Network Open showed that the amount of at-home abortions have almost doubled since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
On the other hand, students are extremely concerned about the inevitable backlash that might occur following the 2024 election results.
“The storming of the Capitol itself was scary,” Jenny Footer, UMKC senior and business administration major said. “What if we go back in history and that happens all over again?”
Additionally, students expressed not only the importance of voting, but the privilege it is to vote.
“Even if you don’t necessarily care about politics, I think it’s important to exercise your right to vote,” Crockett said. “Not only is it your future, but it’s my future too.”
To stay up to date with the election for the next few days, visit https://www.270towin.com/ where you can view a live, interactive map or check out CBS News for updates in real time.
