The 2024 presidential elections have taken place and announced Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States. Donald Trump was the republican candidate running against Kamala Harris who was the candidate for democrats. Although both were very different candidates they had a historic run for president with hope of helping and bettering the United states. This election has kept citizens aware of the potential outcomes this election could mean for the betterment of America. At Ridgeview many students and staff had different views and opinions surrounding this topic. Paul Hernandez is a government teacher at Ridgeview High school, who feels elections are a very big deal. Hernandez states, “The whole concept of the elections are very important so there are opportunities for different people to lead.” The election builds up lots of different emotions keeping voters on edge during this time. “People were very nervous and worried going into this election on both sides,” Hernandez said. This year’s election seemed to stand out a lot compared to past years. Even though facing charges and criticism, Trump was still a running candidate. Kamila was also a very unethical move because of how she was placed into the elections around 100 days before.
The 2024 presidential election would be this country’s 60th election. “This election was very different because of the candidates. One candidate was replaced about 100 days before the election, which is never done and very unorthodox and also the other candidate who has faced charges. Looking at both candidates they are very different from past candidates,” Hernandez said. Inflation has been a more impactful thing for people in the US, prices all over the US have increased worrying citizens on affording everyday living. This shows some type of aspiration for the future, Hernandez continues explaining, “ I don’t think inflation took place because of the fact that Trump left office but because of things like the global pandemic.” Hernandez also added, “There is always room for improvement. Hopefully the economy can be even better in the future.”
Alex Abboud, a senior at Ridgeview High School, talks about how he was on edge during the elections like most people were, “Everyone was nervous before finding out the results of the elections because many people feel very strongly towards these types of things.” Even though Abboud was on edge he wasn’t shocked with Trump winning the elections. He mentioned how Kern County was more red this election than it is normally more blue. In a KGET article it states, “ Kern County’s latest election results show the success of the republican party.”
Voting is a huge part of the election process. Dolores Jimenez, the speech and debate team at Ridgeview said, “I think it is vital to vote especially when you take into consideration those who can’t.” It is very important to look at elections in a positive way no matter the results.
Although some Americans were shocked by the election results it’s important to keep being active in local politics. Remembering as American citizens they have a voice and say in election results and to continue practicing this right. This election, although divided by many citizens, is an important reminder to stand together through the next four years.
