Every four years, something magical happens: voters of all ethnicities, sexual orientations, genders, and backgrounds line up outside of schools, gyms, and firehouses to submit a piece of paper that determines the fate of their country for the next half-decade, and maybe even longer. The right to vote is something that has been fought for by many and cherished by all in America, and happens to be one of the most notable perks of turning 18. 

For a select few in the senior class at Elkhorn High, their birthdays landed just before the cut-off for this year’s election. 

This election is much different than most others in the past; it directly follows months of protest and is happening mid-pandemic, among months and months of political division on both sides of the spectrum. 

Taking part in such a critical election can be incredibly nerve-wracking for some first-time voters, but many seem to be relishing the responsibility. “Everyone deserves a say [in the election],” senior Caite Elser said, “and as a woman, getting to vote was amazing to me and such a surreal experience. This election is special because it is needed to help make a huge change.”

“I’m hype,” senior Kyler Randazzo agreed. 

“I was excited to be a part of the voting experience but I was very nervous because I was very split between both candidates for many reasons,” senior Anna Froscheiser said. 

Being educated on political candidates and their policies is strongly encouraged among those going to vote, and our seniors took it upon themselves to make sure that they made the most educated decision possible: “I watched the debates with my parents and also did research on my own time to get as educated as I could in the little time I had after I registered,” senior Anna Froscheiser said.

Because of the vast differences between both presidential candidates this year, choosing between them was more difficult for some than others. “[I voted for who I did because] one is better than the other,” Elser said. 

“I agreed more with [this candidate’s] policies and who they were as a person to represent this country,” Froscheiser said. 

While people may not agree with some or any of a certain candidate’s policies, the feeling of having your voice be heard is something that many are not taking for granted. 

“After I casted my ballot, I was very nervous because I know that something so simple as filling in a bubble can contribute to something so important that could impact my life.” Froscheiser said. 

“[After I voted,] I had this huge smile on my face and a pep in my step,” Elser said. “ I probably posted right away about everything and this sticker is not being thrown away!”

While we sit and wait for the results of this year’s election, one message is becoming very clear: it is important to get out there and make your voice be heard. Your vote matters, so make it count!

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