VHS students respond to the presidential election.

With the presidential election right around the corner on Nov. 3, political signs and flags have been scattered throughout the city of Ventura. Regardless of age, students have chosen to speak their mind.

At Ventura High, there are a selection of seniors who have come of age right before the election. “Personally, I think this election is very unprofessional and I don’t love either of the candidates, but I think we should settle for the candidate we believe will do the most for the minorities and people as a whole,” said senior Grace Endaya, “I’m 18 and I’m definitely going to vote. I think everyone who is eligible should!”  

Jocelyn Lee, a senior who is also 18 years of age, commented about her personal preferred candidate, “To be honest, I haven’t been keeping up with the debates as much as I should, but from what I’ve seen and heard I think both candidates have their good and bad qualities. Personally, I hope that Trump does not get a second term in office because I do not agree with many of his ideas. I think that there are many other people out there that would be a better fit for president rather than Trump or Biden, but I personally lean towards Biden more because I agree with most of his views.”

The majority of VHS students have not met the requirement of 18 years of age to vote, however they still share opinions about the race and have chosen to speak up for others. “I know that most people at our school would highly disagree, but I think it’s important for young people, like myself, to be open and honest about it. I personally would think Trump would be best in office. He’s pro-gun, pro-life, and cares about our country a lot. He’s done things such as signing a bill to restore funding for black colleges and African American unemployment has recently achieved the lowest rate ever recorded,” stated a VHS student who wished to remain anonymous.

Regardless of political preference, students at Ventura High have recognized the importance of the election itself. “I think everyone including citizens and the candidates themselves need to take this way more seriously,” commented Endaya. 

Senior Rory Bruton also spoke his opinion towards voting, “People should vote so that our elected officials reflect the ideals of our whole nation, your ballot is your voice in democracy. This election is important because it occurs at a tipping point in our history, the outcome of this election will not only affect our nation for the next four years, but will change the course of our world forever.”