Harris, Trump, and the Gen Z Vote: 26 Voters Share Their Election Choices

Gen Z's Election Picks: 26 Young Voters Reveal Their Choices and Hopes for 2024

As the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election approaches, Gen Z voters are showing up with clear voices, strong opinions, and big hopes for the future. For many, this is their first or second time voting in a presidential election, and they’re bringing passion to the polls. With issues like climate change, social justice, reproductive rights, and the economy at the forefront, these young voters are tuned into the policies that directly impact their lives and the future of the country.

We spoke to 26 Gen Zers from across the U.S. to find out who they’re voting for—Kamala Harris or Donald Trump—and why. Their reasons are deeply personal and reflect the priorities of a generation that’s ready to shake up the political landscape. Beyond the election, they also shared what they hope to see in the next four years. Spoiler alert: Gen Z wants bold action, and they aren’t afraid to demand it.

1. Tyler, 22, California

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She takes climate change seriously, and we need a leader who won’t ignore the crisis."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see the U.S. become a global leader in renewable energy."

2. Maya, 20, New York

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She stands up for reproductive rights, and that’s non-negotiable for me."
Wish for the Future: "I want stronger protections for women’s rights across the country."

3. Josh, 23, Florida

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I believe he’ll boost the economy and secure more jobs."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for lower taxes and better job opportunities for young people."

4. Aaliyah, 21, Texas

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s fighting for social justice, and I believe we need more inclusive leadership."
Wish for the Future: "I hope to see real change in racial equality and police reform."

5. Liam, 24, Ohio

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I trust his foreign policy to keep America strong on the global stage."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see America maintain its global dominance and increase military strength."

6. Sophie, 19, Michigan

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She represents a new era of leadership, and it’s time for change."
Wish for the Future: "I’d love to see more attention to mental health services for young people."

7. Dylan, 22, Arizona

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "He prioritizes border security, which is important to me."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for stronger immigration control and border policies."

8. Isabella, 23, Pennsylvania

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "Her stance on climate and LGBTQ+ rights is everything I stand for."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see better protections for LGBTQ+ communities and a sustainable environment."

9. Ethan, 20, Georgia

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I think Trump will make the economy stronger and protect American jobs."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for a booming economy and lower inflation rates."

10. Kayla, 21, Illinois

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s passionate about healthcare reform, and we need affordable healthcare."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for universal healthcare that’s affordable for everyone."

11. Jaden, 24, Colorado

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I support his plans to cut taxes and reduce government regulation."
Wish for the Future: "I hope to see tax cuts for small businesses and less government interference."

12. Emma, 22, New Jersey

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s fighting for women's rights and reproductive freedom."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see stronger protections for women’s rights nationwide."

13. Zach, 23, North Carolina

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I think he’s better for business and the economy."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for more job opportunities and economic stability."

14. Olivia, 20, Oregon

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s a champion for environmental justice, which is crucial right now."
Wish for the Future: "I want the U.S. to go all-in on combating climate change."

15. Evan, 24, Wisconsin

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I trust Trump’s foreign policy to protect American interests."
Wish for the Future: "I hope to see stronger defense policies and reduced foreign conflicts."

16. Amelia, 21, Nevada

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "I believe she’ll make college more affordable, which matters to students like me."
Wish for the Future: "I hope to see student debt forgiveness and more support for higher education."

17. Ryan, 22, Arizona

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "His stance on immigration and border security aligns with my views."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for stricter immigration laws and safer borders."

18. Chloe, 19, Massachusetts

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s focused on social issues that I care deeply about, like LGBTQ+ rights."
Wish for the Future: "I want a more inclusive society that values equality for everyone."

19. Lucas, 23, Florida

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I believe he’s going to protect our economy and improve job growth."
Wish for the Future: "I hope to see more jobs created and a booming economy."

20. Zoe, 20, Washington

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s fighting for climate change solutions, and that’s non-negotiable for me."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see the government take real action on climate and environmental justice."

21. Riley, 23, Washington

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She totally handled Trump in the debates, plus I trust her to protect voting rights."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see real reform to protect democracy and make voting more accessible."

22. Owen, 21, Virginia

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "I think Trump will be tougher on immigration and that’s what this country needs right now."
Wish for the Future: "I hope for stronger border security and more action on illegal immigration."

23. Maddie, 20, Colorado

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "She’s fierce, especially in debates. I love her passion for climate change and equality."
Wish for the Future: "I want climate change action to be a priority, like, now. We can’t wait anymore."

24. Noah, 22, Florida

Voting For: Donald Trump
Why: "He’s the businessman we need to fix this economy and keep America first."
Wish for the Future: "I hope we see more job growth and a stronger economy."

25. Grace, 19, Oregon

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "Kamala is all about progress and keeping women’s rights intact, which is huge for me."
Wish for the Future: "I want to see better protections for reproductive rights and healthcare access for everyone."

26. Bella, 20, New York

Voting For: Kamala Harris
Why: "Honestly? Taylor Swift endorsed Kamala, and if T-Swift is on board, so am I. Plus, Kamala's got the right policies for women's rights and climate change."
Wish for the Future: "I hope we see real progress on gender equality and a country that actually fights climate change, just like Kamala and Taylor would want!"

From the responses, it’s clear that Gen Z is invested in this election—and not just in voting but in shaping the policies and future of the country. Whether they’re backing Kamala Harris for her focus on climate change and social justice or supporting Donald Trump for his strong stance on the economy and immigration, these young voters have big aspirations for the next four years.

What’s most inspiring? Their unwavering belief that their votes can spark real change. Gen Z isn’t just thinking about the present; they’re casting their ballots with the future in mind. They want a country that reflects their values, one where equality, sustainability, and opportunity take center stage.

Stay tuned for more insights on how Gen Z is shaping the future of politics at Woke Waves Magazine!

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