Students express opinions and experience on Election Day

By Jissela Cabrera, Julia Chew, Kaylee Gonzalez

Assistant Director of News, New Reporters

SAN MARCOS– Students speak out on Election Day about their experience, what it means to vote and the importance of local elections.

From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., students lined up at the LBJ Student Center on Election Day to cast their votes. The line began in the polling room hallway and stretched as far as the ballroom lobby throughout the day. Students reported wait times ranging from 10 minutes to over 45 minutes.

Many students described Election Day as “eye-opening,” “long,” “scary,” “powerful” and “exciting.”

“There are a few issues that I’m really concerned about as a Texas resident and a San Marcos resident, and so I just want to use my voice and be able to express my opinion,” said Texas State senior Prasamsa Kharel.

Texas State freshman Chloe Swindle said local elections are important, especially in a large state like Texas.

“People like to say the presidential election is the most important, but it’s kind of like that saying, ‘one percent better every day,’ and local elections are that one percent,” Swindle said.

She emphasized that voting is a fundamental right as an American citizen and a powerful tool to shape the nation’s future.

Hays County election officials say the recent primary election highlighted the importance of voting, especially for those who are first-time voters. As Central Texas continues to grow at a rapid rate, new voters especially play an important role in shaping their community’s future.

Every election allows new voters to take part in making decisions that impact their daily lives, ranging from local issues to statewide leadership. Getting involved early can help these young voters recognize the impact their voices can have, as well as help them build a habit of voter participation that lasts for years.

Angela Rowe, a poll worker at the Hays County Elections Office, highlights why it is important for new voters to recognize the impact their voices can have.

“They need to feel like they have a voice and it’s their future. I mean, if you don’t vote, you’re not gonna have a say in what’s happening to your life,” Rowe said.

Rowe said the elections office does all it can to make first-timers feel at ease with the voting process. The voting machines are all touch screen, which young voters are adept at using, and officials are always around polling locations to answer any questions, if needed.

The Hays County Elections Office also offers curbside voting for voters who are unable to physically enter the building.

Young voters play a very important part in elections, specifically on college campuses where many are voting for the first time. Many students said they believe that voting allows them to influence government plans and express their opinions that impact the economy, education, and immigration policies.

Senior Sapphire Young said voting is the most important thing you can do as an American citizen, as it helps keep the voices of the people heard.

“It helps voice our opinion– if we ignore and brush it off, it ends up becoming this thing of losing our voice,” Young said. “Like our current administration right now, it’s a loss of our voice. Only like, what, 11% of people voted?”

Other students emphasized that they dislike the current political situation in the government. Sophomore Alessandra Aguirre said voting is important because it allows citizens to voice their opinions and help bring about change.

“I’m not happy with our current political state, and so I think that it’s important for me to get my vote out there to try and sustain something,” said Aguirre. “Immigration is important to me because I’ve seen how difficult the process can be, and the system still hasn’t changed.”

Many students said they hope to see more people participate in voting for future elections and stay informed about political issues and candidates.

Texas State seniors Mia Alva and Amelie Juarez said they advise future voters to do research, spread awareness and be vocal about politics.

“I would say, definitely look at who’s going to be on the ballot, all of the candidates, just make sure that they align with your values, with what you want to see in local government or also in regional government,” Juarez said.

“I’d say to not only do your research, but when you find something out, spread that awareness, don’t keep it to yourself,” Alva said. “Don’t give into the notion that, you know, politics is something you shouldn’t discuss. I would say be very vocal and be very encouraging.”