As a Senior at Ohio Wesleyan, I’ve found that election seasons can often feel like a whirlwind of chaos. With the November elections rapidly approaching, it’s important for all of us to recognize the significance of our votes amidst the noise. In a time where misinformation has no leash, understanding the issues and candidates is more important than ever.
Currently, Vice President Kamala Harris is leading former President Donald Trump in the polls by a narrow margin of 49% to 46%. Since entering the race in July, Harris has maintained her lead in national polling averages.
The recent debate held in Pennsylvania on September 10 had over 67 million viewers, a number that highlights how engaged the public is in this election. In the days following the debate, Harris’s lead increased from 2.5 percentage points to 3.3 points.
Alongside electoral engagement comes a challenge: misinformation. Social media and sensationalized news coverage have the power to distort facts and influence public perception in potentially harmful ways.
During the September 10 debate, former President Trump made a shocking claim regarding Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, stating that they were “abducting and eating people’s pets.”
This baseless claim is inflammatory and outrageous, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and feeding into a long history of marginalization against Haitian communities. Since the Haitian Revolution from 1791 to 1804, the country has faced systemic biases that have shaped how its people are viewed, and in this case, discussed on the world stage.
The truth is that there is no evidence supporting Trump’s claims, and local officials in Springfield have strongly refuted his allegations. These statements have influenced people to start asking questions about the legitimacy of what they hear on the news. If people don't ask questions, they can be guided by fear and distrust– and the issues at stake in this election will be overshadowed.
It is our responsibility as informed citizens– especially as students of an institution like Ohio Wesleyan– to critically evaluate the information handed to us and engage with credible sources.
In this election season, as in every election, it is imperative to remember that your vote matters. Even a single vote can make a difference, and our participation is important in shaping the future we want to live in. Whether you support Harris, Trump, or another candidate, the act of voting is a chance to voice your opinions and influence change. I urge everyone to educate themselves and be wary of misinformation that can cloud one’s judgment.
Taking Action
If you are of voting age, now is the time to ensure you’re registered to vote. Each one of us has a voice, and our voices will help shape the world we want to live in. For more information on how to register to vote in Ohio, please visit the resources linked below. Let’s use our collective power, engage in meaningful conversations, and make our voices heard this November. We have the opportunity to shape the future–don’t let it slip away!
Register to become an Ohio voter at https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/
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