College students across the country share their top issues and weigh in on hot-button topics like electric vehicles and reparations, ahead of the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump.
Young Americans across the nation have expressed their concerns ahead of the upcoming presidential debate, citing issues such as the economy, global unrest, and immigration as their primary focal points. While some support progressive policies like electric vehicle mandates and reparations, others remain skeptical of their feasibility and effectiveness.
In interviews with Fox News Digital, students at college campuses in Washington, D.C., Milwaukee, Detroit, and Houston outlined their top concerns and offered their views on various policy positions. The economy emerged as a significant worry, with students expressing concerns about inflation, rising rent prices, and the affordability of housing.
Young Americans Voice Concerns Ahead of Debate: Economy, Unrest, and Electoral Choices
Immigration also ranked high among the students' priorities, with some calling for stricter border control and others advocating for a more compassionate approach. Foreign policy was another prevalent concern, with students expressing apprehension about the potential for armed conflict and a desire for peace-oriented candidates.
Regarding hot-button issues, opinions varied. While some students voiced support for an electric vehicle mandate, others pointed out the potential financial burden it could pose, particularly for low-income households. Reparations for Black Americans also elicited mixed reactions. Some expressed support for addressing historical racial injustices, while others questioned the practicality and economics of such a measure.
Young Americans Voice Concerns Ahead of Debate: Economy, Unrest, and Electoral Choices
Alex, a student at George Washington University who identifies as "far to the left," stated that addressing inflation and rent prices should be a top priority for the administration. He also emphasized the importance of securing a ceasefire in Gaza. Giacomo, from Marquette University in Milwaukee, emphasized immigration and foreign policy as his primary concerns and expressed opposition to candidates advocating for military action.
Ernest, another George Washington University student, expressed concerns about global unrest and attributed it to ongoing wars and inflation. He believes these issues have plagued the nation since President Joe Biden took office.
Young Americans Voice Concerns Ahead of Debate: Economy, Unrest, and Electoral Choices
When questioned about potential federal mandates for electric vehicles, student reactions were mixed. Atinuke, from the University of Houston, supported reparations but voiced reservations about an electric vehicle mandate due to affordability concerns. Riley, another University of Houston student, echoed similar sentiments, questioning the practicality of such a shift for older individuals.
On the topic of reparations, the majority of students acknowledged the historical injustices faced by Black Americans. Joshua, from the University of Houston, believes that Black Americans have significantly contributed to society and deserve recognition. However, he emphasizes that reparations should not be solely monetary.
Young Americans Voice Concerns Ahead of Debate: Economy, Unrest, and Electoral Choices
Cameron, also from the University of Houston, supports reparations but acknowledges the financial implications. Gabe, a student at Wayne State University, remains doubtful about the sincerity of politicians' support for reparations. He believes that it is an issue frequently raised to garner votes but rarely followed through upon.
Vice President Kamala Harris recently updated her campaign website to include policy positions, addressing climate change and electric vehicles. However, neither reparations nor electric vehicle mandates are currently mentioned. During her presidential campaign in 2019, Harris expressed support for "some form of reparations" and legislation to further explore the matter.
Despite these earlier statements, the Harris campaign has since indicated that she "does not support an electric vehicle mandate." The campaign has not clarified her current stance on reparations, despite inquiries from Fox News Digital.
As the presidential debate approaches, young Americans continue to voice their concerns and engage with the issues that will shape the future of the nation. Their diverse perspectives and opinions reflect the complexities and challenges that lie ahead for the candidates and the country as a whole.
