Written by Hannah Guanti
The country is approaching an election year, and for many Roanoke College students, it may be their first opportunity to vote on a national scale. Understanding your party’s candidates is crucial to political involvement.
The first Republican Debate was held in Milwaukee on August 23, introducing a new assortment of potential candidates. In preparation for the second Republic debate on September 27, let us take a quick look at the top candidates, as measured by the Wall Street Journal.
Donald J. Trump- The former president, is considered by many to be in a league of his own. He is currently polling at 59 percent of the Republican vote. Trump’s platform focuses on overhauling key aspects of the federal government, reducing social safety nets, and seeking retribution from political opponents. All the while, Trump is currently facing 91 charges across four separate criminal cases, including allegations related to the 2020 election.
Ron Desantis– Trailing quite a ways behind is the Florida governor, with thirteen percent of the Republican vote. Desantis appears to be Trump’s closest competitor in a losing race. DeSantis has been a vocal opponent of “woke” culture, and COVID requirements, and was the first to reopen following the lockdown. His recent political actions include limitations on LGBT participation in sports and religious ceremonies, restrictions on school curriculum including race and gender, and greater promotion of private and charter schools.
Nikki Haley– The former governor of South Carolina and US Ambassador to the UN is polling relatively close behind Desantis. Her platform heavily emphasizes economic responsibility, increased national security, and strengthening the southern border. With her long-lasting political career, Haley appeals to the conventional Republican instead of the younger anti-woke platform.
Vivek Ramaswamy– As a biotech and pharmaceutical entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy is attempting to carve out his role as the outside in this race. He shares with his fellow candidates a strong stance against “woke” politics but focuses much of his campaign on corruption in government and attracting the youth vote. Unlikely seeing as Ramaswamy only is bolstering five percent of the Republican vote.
Mike Pence– The former Vice President under Trump, Pence is closely associated with traditional Christian values. He is a staunch advocate for anti-abortion policies and legislation that aligns with his conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues. Despite his consistent dedication to the core issues, Pence is attempting to pull the Trump voter, resulting in only two percent of the votes.
The Democratic Party will not be having a debate as the front-runner is President Joe Biden. As we get closer to an election year, it is valuable to be civically engaged and to vote!
