Laticia Martinez, the College Democrats' vice president, expressed her lack of enthusiasm for President Biden last spring, stating, "I didn't want to not vote, but it's so hard to get behind someone who I really just didn't feel was speaking for me... it was the lesser of two evils." This sentiment reflected a broader disconnect between students and the Biden campaign, ultimately affecting turnout and engagement.
The recent fall semester at Michigan State University saw nearly 200 students attending the College Democrats' first meeting, a substantial increase from the 30 attendees last spring. This surge in participation demonstrates a renewed interest and enthusiasm for Democratic candidates in light of Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the nominee, indicating that her candidacy could better resonate with young voters.
Organizers of the Democratic campaigns are keenly aware of the urgency of engaging college voters this election cycle. With Michigan's tight races likely to be influenced by just a few thousand votes, strategies to motivate the 50,000-student body at Michigan State University are central to their plans, contrary to the usual lack of attention paid to this demographic.
The shift in attitude towards voting among students suggests a larger trend where previously apathetic voters are re-engaged by the change in candidates. With the stakes exceptionally high this election cycle for the presidential, Senate, and House races in Michigan, student turnout could be pivotal in determining the outcomes.
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