How Young People And Social Media Could Impact the 2024 Election

CHARLOTTE, NC — As election day grows closer, young people could play a pivotal role in the presidential race.

“So if we all collectively decide to vote, we can change this election and turn it our way,” Johnson C Smith University student Tejah Travis said. 

Research shows 41 million Gen Z’ers are eligible to vote. 

 Some of them voting for the first time. 

“I just turned 18, and I’m really excited to, you know, exercise my democratic abilities and also just be a part of, you know, the democratic process in this country,” UNC Charlotte student Joanna Gilbert said. 

 Social media shapes many of their views, with many saying they consume their news and keep up with politics on platforms like TikTok. 

“We’re on our phones. That’s where we see everything. That’s where we’re going to get our news from,” Johnson C. Smith University student Jermaine Jean said. 

TikTok is so popular with younger voters that Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are both using the platform with their videos garnering millions of views. 

“It’s funny, but it’s also, you know, giving you that education that you need so that people understand what’s on the ballot this election,” Travis said. 

Many college students agree it’s important to fact check to combat misinformation about the election that can circulate on social media. 

“I feel like it’s a good way to start a conversation, but I feel like you can’t get your facts from a  social media account,” UNC Charlotte student Miranda Lawson said.