As the United States approaches the 2024 presidential election, first-time voters find themselves at a critical juncture. New voters, primarily young people from Gen Z and late Millennials, will play a decisive role as they make up a significant share of eligible voters.
Why Does This Election Matter to New Voters?
For over 8 million first-time voters, this election marks the first opportunity to shape U.S. politics on a national scale. Many of them were young teens during the 2020 election and have since been shaped by the policies of the Trump and Biden administrations. Their concerns are far-reaching and reflect a desire for substantial change across issues like climate policy, economic stability, and social justice.
1. Climate Change and Environmental Policy
Young voters, who will live with the long-term effects of climate change, prioritize robust environmental policies. They are highly concerned about both presidential candidates’ stances on climate action, which vary considerably. Kamala Harris and her Democratic coalition commit to upholding the Paris Agreement, aiming for continued carbon reductions and the expansion of clean energy. In contrast, Donald Trump’s campaign suggests a return to increased fossil fuel production, a move that worries young voters focused on environmental sustainability. First-time voters have rallied around the demand for the U.S. to lead on climate change, recognizing its importance in securing their future.
2. Economic Stability and Job Opportunities
Economic concerns top the list for many new voters, particularly amid inflation, student debt, and housing costs. As they look toward economic stability, candidates’ plans for job creation and financial relief resonate strongly. Harris’s economic policies, which emphasize job growth through investments in green technology and infrastructure, are seen as appealing to young voters. On the other hand, Trump’s economic policies focus on deregulation and a more laissez-faire approach to job growth, which appeals to segments of the youth who favor limited government intervention. Economic security, including fair wages and affordable housing, is especially crucial for young people who feel financially constrained as they enter the workforce.
3. Social Justice and Equality
Social justice remains a pivotal issue for this generation, which has grown up amid discussions around racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender equity. First-time voters are heavily focused on the candidates’ stances regarding rights protections and anti-discrimination measures. Many young voters support policies that advance equal rights, with a strong focus on criminal justice reform, healthcare access, and protections for marginalized groups. Both candidates have been vocal on social justice issues, though their approaches differ sharply. Harris’s campaign addresses systemic inequality directly, while Trump emphasizes law and order, an approach that has received mixed responses from younger voters.
4. Election Integrity and Misinformation Concerns
The pervasive issues of election security and misinformation have shaped young voters’ political awareness, particularly due to social media’s role in spreading disinformation. Many first-time voters view election integrity as essential to preserving democracy. Harris has expressed support for measures to safeguard against misinformation, especially on digital platforms, while Trump’s stance on media accountability has focused on limiting perceived bias against conservative voices. These divergent approaches reflect broader concerns about how misinformation could sway elections, with young voters keenly aware of its impact.
5. Reproductive Rights
With the shifting landscape of reproductive rights, particularly following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, young voters are sharply focused on candidates’ positions on reproductive freedom. Harris has championed federal protections for abortion access, while Trump has supported more restrictive policies. This topic is deeply personal for many first-time voters, who see reproductive rights as a matter of individual autonomy.
Voter Mobilization and Impact on the Election
Young voters’ turnout could be instrumental in swaying the election, particularly in swing states. According to polling data, young people favor Harris slightly, especially on issues like climate change and social justice, though Trump’s policies attract youth voters who lean conservative. With mobilization efforts targeting young Americans, both campaigns recognize the critical role first-time voters play in a tightly contested election.
This election embodies first-time voters’ hopes and apprehensions, making their turnout crucial. Whether through policy on climate, economic stability, or social justice, the 2024 presidential election provides these voters an opportunity to advocate for a future aligned with their values. Ultimately, the decision they make could significantly alter the course of American politics for years to come.
