Students participate in midterm elections on and off campus

As the midterm election winds down and votes are tallied, communities across the country await results with anticipation.

Though midterm elections have lower voter turnout than presidential elections, they help determine which party will take control of Congress. At the state and local level, open positions included governor, attorney general, secretary of state and mayor.

Claire Haeg, a professor of political science at CSB+SJU, provided insight into the race and the importance of voter turnout for midterm elections. One of the most watched race is for control of the Senate and House. This year, 14 Democrat and 20 Republican seats are up for election in the Senate, in addition to each of the 435 seats in the House. The presidential party usually loses seats during the midterms, resulting in a switch of control in Congress. The state of the economy and presidential popularity impact this vote; with incessant inflation and a 57% disapproval rate for President Biden, the GOP seems poised to assume power in Congress.

While the House race is shaping up to be a probable victory for Republicans, the Senate remains in the balance. This is somewhat surprising given the big swing that is typically seen in Congressional races. Haeg noted a few possible reasons for the Senate race remaining so close between both parties. One reason is Dobb’s decision, which removed the constitutional right to abortion. Independent and some Republican voters may have been swayed towards a Democratic ticket by this ruling, deciding it was a step too far.

Another possible influence on voters is the issue of stolen elections and the desire to preserve fair elections, as well as higher youth turnout than expected. Regardless of how the polls shake out, the country is likely to enter a period of inaction in Congress.

“It becomes quite difficult [to pass laws] in these highly partisan times where you don’t get many members of Congress breaking with their party over a vote…it does become quite hard to get things done,” Haeg said.

If the GOP does win the House, as is predicted, it will be by a single digit margin. The Speaker of the House will thus have a difficult time doing what he wants. According to an article by the Associated Press, more than 41 million people nationwide have voted early. Because of this, early voting numbers this year have surpassed 2018.

Over the years, there has been an increasing voter turnout among young adults. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) at Tuft’s University Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life, 27% of people ages 18-29 voted in the 2022 midterm election compared to the historic turnout of 31% in 2018. Absentee voting, along with same day registration, the ability to vote with only a student ID and easy access to polling places have likely contributed to a continuing trend of higher voter turnout for CSB+SJU students.

“Young people are concerned about their world being on fire, literally and figuratively,” Haeg said.

Haeg also stressed the importance of voting. Economists and some voters think voting is pointless because a single vote doesn’t make a difference. While it may not be as slim as a single vote deciding the results of an election, some elections are decided on slim margins. Many students shared similar reasons for voting.

“I voted to have my voice heard, even if it is small,” CSB junior Bryn Carlstrom said.

Cate Luna, a senior, expressed a sentiment of worry that accompanied her vote.

“Honestly, I voted because I’m scared for the future,” Luna said.

Regardless of the election outcome, the fulfillment of civic duty is an important reason to vote.

“If you vote, [it shows] that you care about this place,” Haeg said. “Our world, the country, our state [and] our local school district matter.”