Election Day on Nov. 8 is almost here as citizens are encouraged to register by Oct. 24 to be able to vote in the election. This election voters will be deciding the state’s new senators, governor and attorney general. Most importantly, voters will choose between Biden-backed former Lt. Gov. John Fetterman and Trump-backed Dr. Mehmet Oz.

Pennsylvania voters will also be deciding the states next governor to fill the seat of Democrat Tom Wolf. Democratic candidate Josh Shapiro will be facing Republican Doug Mastriano. The next governor of Pennsylvania will impact how future elections are held in the state, which comes at a time when claims of election fraud in the 2020 Presidential election is a contentious issue.

Among the issues on the ballot for Pennsylvania this year are education, state taxes, the economy and abortion rights. These issues are notable due to how they affect the younger population. In education, for example, John Fetterman has announced his plans to act towards cancelling student loan debt. Republican candidates are focusing on giving parents a choice in school curriculums. The debate on reproductive rights came back into fierce spotlight following the overturning of Roe v. Wade in the summer of 2022. The decision on abortion legality is now a state issue, especially in a swing state like Pennsylvania.

With youth vote being critical in the upcoming election, and voter turnout for younger generations being as low as it is, many universities have made drives toward promoting voter turnout on campus. Shippensburg University is among them. 

According to SU professor Rebecca Harris, “Your age bracket, 18-24, makes up 12% of the eligible voters, but only 9% actually went to the polls in 2020. It’s more important than ever that our younger voters turn out now. In short, you should be the one to shape your future.” 

Shippensburg University also provides the ShipVotes program, which promotes non-partisan electoral participation and democratic engagement among students.

It is important that students get registered before the window closes. According to Harris, “The last day to register to vote in Penssylvania is Oct. 24, so at this point I would encourage those who are registered to go to the polls on Nov. 8.” 

Students at Shippensburg who are enthusiastic can do more than just vote on Election Day. ShipVotes will hold a volunteering opportunity on Nov. 8 to help with the election process.

With the election right around the corner, it is important for both students and members of the population to be registered and prepared to go to the polls. Being an informed voter goes a long way towards improving the democracy of the United States. Programs like ShipVotes help students become better citizens. With issues on the ballot as contentious as they are, students should be encouraged to engage in healthy debate and have awareness on issues that matter to them most. 

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