Chapman students and their reaction to election topics

Photo Collage by Samantha Rosinski, Staff Photographer

The United States presidential election is approaching rapidly, and students are taking the much-needed time to educate themselves on the policies that could see change as a result of who becomes president.

For many Chapman students, this is their first opportunity to vote in a presidential election, and many students shared their excitement for this chance. One such student is Katelyn Ko, a sophomore psychology major, who shared her feelings regarding voting and what it means to her. 

“To me, voting is a way to express your opinions and have an impact on who you want to represent you,” Ko shared. “It’s a way for individuals to shape their communities and overall futures.” 

Students were asked to share their opinions on changes to important policies that could be seen with changes in the national office on Nov. 5, 2024. Students were first asked about their opinions and what those rights mean to them, but also how they impact the upcoming election. 

On the topic of reproductive rights and abortion access Brandon Hernandez, a sophomore business administration major stated, “I think women and their families should have the full choices over their reproductive rights.” 

Ko also shared some of her opinions on reproductive rights, giving insights similar to Hernandez. 

“As a woman, I believe that everyone should have the right to an abortion no matter the circumstance," Ko stated. “I heavily believe in the saying of ‘my body my choice’ because ultimately that decision should be your own and decided for you.” 

What makes reproductive rights discussion so relevant to the current election comes in opposing political sides taking on opposite views of how the rights should be handled. Ko expresses further what these policy changes mean to her. 

“With this election, there is a possibility that the next president could introduce federal legislation on abortion and it will be determined whether the government will provide protection for reproductive rights or create further restrictions,” Ko added. 

When asked about the topic of gun control, students shared their thoughts on the limitations that they believed should be put on it. 

Hernandez detailed his feelings stating, “I think there should be structured gun laws all across the United States.” 

Gun control becomes an important topic for this election, as politicians look to find solutions to its impending issues. With an influx in mass-shootings, America is in fear of their public spaces, and students feel passionate about necessary changes. Matthew Daniels, a second-year business administration student, shared his concerns on the matter.

“It’s important to have limitations to something that can be so dangerous,” shared Daniels. “This election needs to solve some of those issues before more are harmed by its easy access.” 

Another topic that students remained passionate about regarding its apparent dangers was climate change. Ko chimed in on the topic sharing the need to focus on climate change policy this election.

“Climate change is a very important global issue and humans should be actively putting in effort to slowing it down by observing and possibly altering their habits.” Ko shared. “The election does play a part in this, different political parties may have different stances in regards to renewable energy and climate concerns.” 

Climate change is relevant to this election due to each party voicing drastically different opinions on the issue, and having different solutions to solve its impending issue.

Immigration was also a well-versed subject for many students as they shared their feelings on issues with the borders. 

“I think the ability for immigrants to be welcomed to America is important,” Daniels shared. “Granted, borders are important, but America is its best when people have the opportunity to make the most of it here.” 

Immigration remains important to the election as candidates remain split on how to handle borders. The election will decide what the next four years will look like for immigration as a whole. 

The election is important to Chapman students as they look forward to making an impact on what the next four years will look like. Election Day is Nov. 5, 2024, and students cannot wait to make the most of their voice in this country.