Some University of Illinois students are doubling down on their ballot picks following the Presidential debate held on September 10 between Vice President Kamala Harris, and Former President Donald Trump.
IPM’s David Pierce uncovered how each candidates’ responses to questions regarding immigration, reproductive rights, and foreign affairs are impacting voting decisions.
Over 80 students gathered at the Illini Union to watch the debate including senior Courtney Dillon.
She wanted to see how the candidates addressed reproductive rights and immigration. For her, one candidate rose above the other.
“I would say Kamala Harris did,” Dillon said. “[Trump] said he didn’t have plans, and he was just trying to rebuttal everything she was saying, so I feel like there’s nothing concrete.”
That was the sentiment echoed by pre-med student, Amauri Middleton.
“She talked about manufacturing and still creating jobs, but also putting an emphasis on climate change and protecting the environment,” Middleton said. “Healthcare Reform, again, he really seems to have no plan for healthcare reform and to want to repeal and act that you have no plan to replace is definitely concerning.”
Alyssa Villegas had a different takeaway. The 21-year-old is voting for the first time. She believes Harris did well, but as a member of the military, she plans to vote for Trump.
“I feel like the war within Ukraine and Russia, and, you know, everything that’s been going on that’s probably what appealed to me the most,” Villegas explained. “And just the fact that he said that this wouldn’t have happened under his presidency and I do believe that as well.”
Another concern for young voters is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Freshman Willem Magee is willing to vote for Harris, but is concerned about her stance on the issue.
“By saying, Israel has a right to defend itself, but also recognizing that there was a lot of death, especially among the civilians in Gaza,” he said. “But I don’t think I think she should have maybe examined that a little bit more.”
Early voting in Illinois begins September 26. Election Day is November 5.