As the 2024 election approaches, it is more important than ever for young people to vote. Issues such as student loan forgiveness, rising housing costs and reproductive rights directly impact young people. These races are a key opportunity to shape the lives of college students both now and in the next decade. Many of the topics on the table for this election will change our lives — it is crucial that students recognize what is at stake and vote.
One of the most heated topics for the two candidates is student loans. Vice President Kamala Harris’ position builds off of many of President Joe Biden’s policies. The most notable is the SAVE plan, which is an Income-Driven Repayment where monthly payments are based on income and family size.
Former President Donald Trump’s policies regarding student loan forgiveness differ drastically. He has commended the Supreme Court’s halting of Biden’s student loan plan and described it as unfair to people who had to work hard to pay off their loans. His campaign argues that non-college educated people would have to subsidize through taxes and those who chose to go to college would accrue loans.
It is crucial for students to consider both candidates’ viewpoints before voting. The difference between graduating with student loans and being debt-free can be life-altering for financial independence, career choices and home ownership.
Another widely contested issue this election is housing affordability. In the recent debate, Harris stated that housing is scarce and prices are too high for Americans to afford. She indicated in a recent ad that she will propose 3 million new housing units and tax cuts, as well as providing $25,000 in down-payment assistance for first-time buyers if elected.
Trump’s position includes similar plans of constructing new units. In a speech to the Economic Club of New York, he highlighted the cost of regulation and stated that he intends to build housing in areas with low tax and regulation cost. He stated that he would prevent mortgages for undocumented immigrants, which will could reduce the cost of housing slightly.
For college students, purchasing a house during undergraduate years or after graduation can be exceedingly expensive and difficult. Home ownership is the pillar of a strong economy where its citizens can anchor in a community and build lives with families inside and outside that home.
Another issue discussed in the election is reproductive rights. The reversal of Roe v. Wade affected all aspects of reproductive healthcare, including family planning. KFF found that most OBGYNs felt their ability to manage pregnancy-related emergencies has worsened, and 64 percent also believed that the Dobbs decision increased pregnancy-related mortality.
Harris said she plans to sign any legislation that restores the protection of Roe v. Wade. Trump has not indicated his plans for a national abortion ban but strongly promoted leaving abortion to the states.
