The 2024 election is shaping up to be pivotal at both national and state levels. Vice President Kamala Harris faces off against former President Donald Trump in the presidential election. In Utah, voters have several critical races to consider.
Incumbent Gov. Spencer Cox is seeking re-election against Democratic challenger Brian King. The race to fill Mitt Romney’s U.S. Senate seat has Republican Rep. John Curtis competing with Democrat Caroline Gleich.
Local races for critical county positions, constitutional amendments and various Utah House seats are also up for a vote.
The Daily Utah Chronicle interviewed students in the Marriott Library who had voted to get their thoughts about the election. Students were asked why they voted and what their thoughts were on the election as a whole.
“Voting is one of the most important rights that we have in our country,” said Maya Mercedes, a student voter. “In order to preserve democracy, it’s imperative that people vote.”
Mercedes described this election as a potential “turning point in history,” with lives and rights at stake.
“We can either go backwards or move forward,” she said.
For some students, this election represents a chance to shape a future that aligns with their values. First-time voter Alina DiMaggio, who grew up with an immigrant mother, emphasized the personal significance of voting.
“Being a woman and having a choice is important to me,” DiMaggio said. “The election’s impact on the environment and my children’s future are at the forefront of my mind.”
Others, like Hannah Najar and Beth Frolic, stressed the responsibility of young people to make their voices heard.
“College students don’t always realize the importance of voting,” Najar said. “Our votes really can determine the future of both the state and the country.”
Frolic shared this sentiment. She called the process “nerve-racking” but emphasized the need for young people to exercise their right to vote given what is at stake.
For many of these students, this election carries a sense of urgency.
“It’s scary to know that things like women’s rights and abortion rights are even up for debate,” said Frolic. Still, she expressed hope in seeing a high level of engagement from her peers.
Caelan Roberts contributed reporting to this article.
