The 2024 election was a significant event for Stockton University students, as they witnessed Donald Trump’s return to the presidency and Representative Andy Kim’s win for New Jersey’s Senate seat. This left many students reflecting on the future of politics and education.

The American Democracy Project (ADP), a national program under the American Association for State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), hosted a voter registration drive back on September 26 to encourage political participation among students. Stockton has participated in ADP since 2003, with the program run by a committee of faculty, staff, and students who plan programming designed to foster civic education.

In October, the Stockton Student Senate also organized tabling events to help students apply for mail-in ballots. Over 150 applications were mailed out, offering many a convenient way to vote between busy schedules.

According to a recent poll from Stockton’s William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy, New Jersey voters are primarily concerned with issues such as inflation and the cost of everyday goods, wages, and unemployment. When it comes to economic policy, there is a divide between the parties on how best to address these concerns. Democrats are focused on raising taxes on the wealthy and addressing price gouging on groceries, while Republicans are more focused on reducing the federal deficit and national debt.

Another key issue raised during the election was the future of the U.S. Department of Education. Proposals to significantly reduce or eliminate the department have sparked questions about how federal policy changes could affect institutions like Stockton. The Department currently plays a role in financial aid, grants, and other programs that many students rely on to pursue their education.

For more information on voter registration initiatives or Stockton University’s civic engagement efforts, visit their page here.