A survey sent out to Smithies asked, “What is the number one issue on your mind this election cycle? Why?” This is what the respondents said.
Threats to Democracy:
“The protection of our democracy and democratic processes.”
Healthcare:
“Healthcare because my fiance and I both could be deemed as having pre-existing conditions.”
Reproductive Rights:
“The number one issue on my mind is reproductive rights, because I feel that we’re at a critical point as far as whether we’re going to have them in the near future.”
Police Abolition/Reform:
“Abolishing the Police, increasing violence against POC communities and I feel like abolishing cops would have the most direct impact.”
COVID-19:
“COVID-19. When Trump was elected, this is exactly the kind of apocalyptic thing that I feared would come from his presidency but didn’t actually believe would happen. I have to pinch myself daily to remind myself what a bizarre time we are living through, and how largely avoidable it is. I don’t think Biden can or will do much to address other big issues I care about, like racial injustice, abolishing police and prisons, and expanding immigration. But COVID-19 is a very immediate concern for me and I do believe he will do what is right to minimize its effects and put the US on a better path in that regard.”
Climate Change:
“Climate change — because we are running out of time and it affects vulnerable/disenfranchised members of society the most.”
Fear of Uncertainty:
“When I can breathe out. When will we know this election is settled? Do I need to worry about the safety of me and my loved ones and community? There’s so little finality, that I’m incredibly nervous.”
Racial Injustice:
“Racial injustice — it is the biggest issue in the country and has been for decades/centuries.”
Human Rights:
“Human rights. The American government has always been a tool to enforce white supremacy and the patriarchy onto its people and the election is only highlighting the major problems we have been facing for centuries (having to do with human rights issues). Both presidential candidates enforce this system so as a country, how are we to progress past this to help people in need?”
