Wayne State University students and first-time voters are participating in the election

DETROIT (WXYZ) — For millions of Americans, November 5, 2024 will be the first time they will be eligible to vote for our next president, and it is these young voters who could be a deciding factor in this race.

We visited Wayne State University to hear from new college-age voters.

“I’m definitely looking forward to being able to vote,” Isabella Connolly said.

“I can finally express my opinion” said Mickey Keller.

“I can’t wait to see what it’s like.” said Donovan Smith.

According to American Government Professor Jeff Grynaviski, this group of voters, better known as Gen Z voters, could tip the scales in the 2024 election.

“If there are large swings in one direction or the other among Generation Z voters, who have historically not voted as frequently as older people, and their turnout is suddenly higher, that could make a big difference in the election.” he says.

After sitting down with several students individually, it is clear that they are eager to make their voices heard.

“I honestly don’t understand why people don’t want to vote because it’s an important part.” said Leah Labean.

“Just do it to get the feeling” said D’maurion Thomas.

The enthusiasm to vote surprised Grynaviski.

“This course, which has, for example, engineering students and medical students with all the equipment and Kaboodle, has a very strong interest in this choice,” Grynaviski said.

What exactly do these Generation Z voters care about? Some of them said the economy was driving their vote.

“Lower inflation and some sort of opportunity for the younger generation to make a name for themselves,” Keller said.

“We are looking for the best for our future” Allison Heringhausen said.

Everyone we spoke to mentioned the conflict in the Middle East.

“What is happening in Palestine? What is happening here in the country?” said Ronel Outlaw.

“It is mainly the Palestine conflict. Whether they are for or against,” Saima Alim said.

“I hate it when people find themselves in any negative situation.” said Bobby Gordon.

For Grynaviski, this was another surprise.

“One of the things that struck me about this election and that I keep hearing from my students is the overwhelming support for the Palestinians,” Grynaviski said.

Of course, young voters disagree on many things.

“I vote for the policy,” Outlaw said.

“I hate to say it, but I don’t even vote for politics anymore. “For me, it became a person,” Labean said.

However, all students agree on one point: the importance of voting itself is important.

“I feel like voting is a patriotic thing,” Heringhausen said.

“It is our civic duty as Americans,” Keller said.

“What I say and what I contribute really matters now,” Smith said.

Where your voice counts