Tensions are high ahead of the upcoming election on Nov. 4, 2024, and many young people nationwide are able to vote for the first time. But who to vote for? Former President Donald Trump or current Vice President Kamala Harris? For many, this election is crucial, and both candidates have strong, yet extremely different stances on the issues that voters are concerned about. 

According to Pew Research, some of the main issues that voters bring up are abortion, the economy, immigration, and more. Let’s examine what our two candidates have to say about these issues.

Abortion:

Abortion has been a highly controversial topic among voters and the controversy around it has only heightened since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. 

Donald Trump:

Trump’s stance on abortion is unclear, as he has formerly stated being pro-choice, and then pro-life. His most recent statement on abortion, according to NPR, was that “abortion should be left up to the states.” He also said “‘My view is now that we have abortion where everybody wanted it from a legal standpoint, the states will determine by vote or legislation or perhaps both, and whatever they decide must be the law of the land. In this case, the law of the state.’” 

Kamala Harris:

According to the White House, Harris stated on Dec. 19, 2023, “I will continue to fight for our fundamental freedoms while bringing together those throughout America who agree that every woman should have the right to make decisions about her own body – not the government.” Harris has been assertive about her stance on abortion, calling for the restoration of Roe v. Wade.

Economy:

Many Americans see the economy as one of the most important issues. The economy comprises many factors, such as affordable housing, taxes, etc. You may have heard people around you complain about the economy. How are our candidates going to help?

Donald Trump:

A main appeal of Trump for some is that people felt the economy was a lot better during his time as president. Let’s take a look at some of his ideas to help Americans.

• Affordable housing:

• • According to the Associated Press, “Trump says he will create tax incentives for homebuyers, cut “unnecessary” regulations on home construction, and make some federal land available for residential construction…he will lower housing costs by reducing inflation and stopping illegal immigration.”
• Taxes:
  • According to ABC News, Trump proposes more tax cuts for people and states that he will make up for the lost tax revenue by hiking up tariffs.

Kamala Harris:

Harris voices her support for the people, claiming to ease inflation and high living costs.

• Affordable housing:

• • According to the Associated Press, “Trump says he will create tax incentives for homebuyers, cut “unnecessary” regulations on home construction, and make some federal land available for residential construction…he will lower housing costs by reducing inflation and stopping illegal immigration.”
• Taxes: 
  • Forbes states, “The vice president’s tax plan takes aim at the wealthiest Americans to pay for her assistance to the middle class and lower-income Americans.” She seems to be following Biden’s plans for raising taxes for the wealthiest.

Immigration:

Like all of the issues previously mentioned, many Americans have seen immigration as controversial. Some believe that immigration should be limited. In contrast, others believe the government should help out immigrants more, especially those at the border. 

Donald Trump:

Trump seems to be going back to his claims, when he was previously president, of building the wall. According to NPR, he aims to forcefully expel migrants and claims to “‘invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to target and dismantle every migrant criminal network operating on American soil.’”

Kamala Harris:

Harris has a different plan of strengthening border security instead. According to the Associated Press, “Harris outlined a plan to crack down further on asylum claims and extend restrictions put in place earlier this summer by the Biden administration on asylum access.”

Student Opinions on the Candidates:

One anonymous student in Damascus High School states that they would probably vote for Trump, simply stating “Kamala is a socialist.” 

Conversely, another student expresses support for Kamala: “I believe in human rights. I want people to be able to identify as what they want to be and to be themselves. The government should not restrict important things. There’s also the issue of Project 2025.” This student also explained that there was a possibility that Project 2025 could ban contraceptives, which was necessary for a condition they had. Lastly, they state, “I don’t want a convicted felon as president.”

Another student reflects on the days when Trump was still president. “The economic status of the United States [was better]. The cost of oil, and conflicts with other countries and other things were limited. Now, there are inflated taxes and so much war,” said a student, who thinks Trump could be the better candidate.

“I don’t know…they both suck.” states another student, who is unsure of who to vote for.

If you are 18 or older, this is your sign to vote! Go out and vote for someone whose policies you believe in and make a careful decision.