Every election cycle is a pivotal moment in American history, to help the country decide who will become the next president, to elect officials for different government positions, and to cement in new laws and propositions. This year especially has had special significance with what appears to be a major voter turnout and a much greater interest and perceived importance in politics among the citizens of our country. It is also an opportunity for members of Gen Z, who have been directly impacted by politically driven decisions made about the COVID-19 pandemic.
On October 31st 2020, I decided to contact a first time voter, Isabella Miranda, to get her insights on the voting situation this year. We spoke over FaceTime, accidentally timed during a likely unintentional fire drill on her college campus. During our call, some honking from a golf cart could be heard blaring by. Sounds like an interesting Halloween.
Blake Killion: This is Blake Killion from The Lighthouse. Thanks for talking today. How old are you?
Isabella Miranda: Eighteen.
And where do you live? General area, not really specifics.
Riverside, California.
Got it. So this is your first time voting?
Yes.
And what inspired you to vote?
Um, what inspired me to vote was just being able to have a say in who our elected officials are gonna be.
Nice! That’s a good reason. What method did you use to vote? Like ballot box, or mail-
A mail-in ballot.
And what method do you usually prefer to use? Or would you prefer to use.
In person.
Did you do your research before voting?
Yes.
What would you say influenced your vote the most? Like parent influence, research or peer opinion, etc
Uh, research.
And do you think your vote makes a difference?
Yes.
Awesome, thank you!
No problem.
The Lighthouse 