As the 2024 Election nears, UC Berkeley Social Sciences conducted informal surveys on whether students plan to vote and their top issues.
This year's election is pivotal for young voters — many of whom are voting in their first election. As college students become more engaged in issues, those who cast a ballot could help determine the outcome of many races and initiatives.
The surveys were not scientific and conducted informally through emails that asked students about their top issues, and a social media-based poll that sought to gauge whether students plan to vote. Here's a look at the results of the students who did respond.
Of the 25 student respondents, 88% said they are planning to vote; while 12% do not plan to cast a ballot. The 18 Social Sciences students who responded to the email chose the following topics as their top issues.
Climate Change
Student respondents who chose climate change said it impacts everyone, with those in lower socioeconomic groups bearing the greatest burdens and often lacking resources to handle climate disasters. They feel that the current presidential candidates have not fully committed to addressing this urgent issue, leaving young people and climate advocates feeling ignored.
War in Gaza
Student respondents who chose this issue expressed their concern about the U.S. government's support for Israel, the many civilians being killed and significant human suffering in Gaza. They noted that this issue resonates strongly with them due to the deep pain and trauma felt by many communities because of the war.
Economy
Students who picked economic inequality as their primary issue, are calling for increased investment in the working and middle classes and limiting corporate influence. They said financial stability affects nearly all aspects of life, from housing and healthcare access to education and family well-being.
Healthcare
Those students who identified access to healthcare as their main concern, cited the many people who face barriers to preventive care and treatment based on socioeconomic status. Mental health care, they said, is often overlooked, even though nearly a quarter of Americans experience mental health challenges.
Abortion
Student respondents who chose government restrictions on abortion as their top issue are opposed to what they see as an infringement on personal rights and individual autonomy. This issue is especially important in the election, they said, as it reflects broader debates on individual autonomy and human rights.
Democracy
The students for whom democracy and the protection of the rule of law are very important, said they were especially concerned with potential changes to legal protections under certain political agendas. Depending on who wins, these students said, government structures may be politicized and democratic norms may be threatened.