As the election approaches, a significant number of Gen Z voters will be heading to the polls for the first time. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation is emerging as a powerful force in American politics, bringing fresh perspectives and high expectations to the electoral process. With their social consciousness, Gen Z voters are more informed and way more vocal about the changes they wish to see with a new president leading the country.
One of the key expectations among Gen Z voters is accountability from our political leaders. Having grown up in an era with unlimited access to information and the Internet , Zillennial voters demand transparency and responsibility from those in power. In the current political running, young voters are closely examining figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Voters are especially eager to hold them accountable for their actions, policies, and promises they are going to make in office.
Harris, as the first, Black female Vice President, carries the pressure and weight on her shoulders. Gen Z voters, whose main concerns are racial justice, climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and more are watching closely to see how she uses her platform to address these problems. Similarly, Governor Walz, known for his stance on various issues, faces the challenge of meeting the high expectations set by these new voters.
As the election approaches, Gen Z’s voice will play a pivotal role, and their insistence on accountability could shape the outcome significantly. As they enter the voting booths, these voters are sending a clear message: they expect Harris and Walz to not only address the people’s concerns but fix them and deliver on their promises.
Reproductive Rights
Reproductive rights, specifically rights to birth control and safe and legal abortion care, are important issues for Gen Z voters, who view them as fundamental to a person’s freedom and gender equality. This generation, deeply devoted to social justice, sees the protection of these rights as an essential issue that needs to be fixed for their future. They look to Kamala Harris and Tim Walz to defend these rights, expecting them to stand firm against negativity to reproductive freedom. Gen Z voters closely monitor how Harrise and Walz address this issue as they seek reassurance that this right will be safeguarded.
Climate Action
A top priority for Gen Z voters is climate action, which is essential for their generation’s and future families’ survival. As the realities of climate change are more apparent, Gen Z is more aware that their lives and the well-being of their future children depend on immediate action. Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz are considered to champion environmental policies that protect the planet and gain a sustainable future. Gen Z has expectations that need to be upheld to regulate the climate crisis, recognizing that their decisions today will shape the world of generations to come.
Student Loan Debt Forgiveness
Kiara-Simone Davis, a senior at Babson College, emphasized the importance of continued support for student loan debt forgiveness. “This is such a pressing issue for Gen Z’ers as we all apply for FAFSA every year with the expectation of paying those loans back after college,” she tells GU. “With Harris and Walz’s continued support in this matter, students like me would be able to have a fresh start going into this new chapter of officially entering the workforce with no prior debt lingering.”
Gun Regulation
Another issue Gen Z voters look to have resolved is gun violence, having witnessed the devastating impact of gun violence on schools, communities, and families. They see the need for stronger gun laws to protect humans everywhere from the constant threat of violence. Effective gun regulation would not only reduce the risk of mass shootings but can also create a safer environment where Gen Z and other generations can live, learn, and thrive without fear.
LGBTQ+ rights
During an interview with Fuad Ahemedin, a senior at Babson College, he emphasized the importance of LGBTQ+ rights and how he wants Harris and Walz to uphold them “LGBTQ+ rights is a critical issue in the election because they directly impact the equality and safety of millions of individuals, including their access to essential services and protections,” Ahemedin tells GU. “In particular, policies around transgender rights, including participation in sports, highlight the need for fair and inclusive practices that respect individual identities while maintaining competitive integrity. Addressing these issues ensures that all people, regardless of their gender identity, can fully participate in society and contribute to its diversity and strength.”
About the Author: Camille Minor is the Girls United Intern and is gaining experience on Gen Z, beauty and lifestyle through her stories.