Dear U.S. Presidential candidates,
As a concerned American voter, I have a few comments. I am a 22-year-old, soon to be college grad, who is concerned about this year’s election. I will admit upfront that I am an independent, middle-of-the-road, American voter. Depending on the issue, both Democrats and Republicans have views I agree with. I am, by no means, the most knowledgeable voter. I do not know everything about policies, laws, etc., but I have been making an intense effort to be prepared before November. I have watched several of the debates (both Republican and Democratic) and read numerous news articles on each of the candidates as well as on the issues.
I am a college student and I do not hear many of the concerns of my generation being represented. I know everyone has a stance on education and how to go about it, but I do not hear it nearly as much as the other issues, especially in the debates. I know that is not completely your fault, as the moderators do not always ask proper questions. However, this is where the Democrats beat you. Their debates and main issues are focused on health care, education and, generally, are more family oriented. Whereas, Republicans seem to focus on economy, immigration, and ISIS. Not that these are bad topics, they are highly important, but education is a huge issue that the Republican Party does not seem to be as focused on. This is why Bernie Sanders is so popular with millennials. We do not want to be in college debt for the rest of our lives and Sanders offers an alternative. Granted, he fails to mention how much taxes will be raised, the repercussions for Wall Street and the economy, among other things, but it is something. You guys are alienating an entire demographic.
Next, your behavior in the debates further alienates voters from your party. The last debate was appalling. The only candidates who seemed to behave properly were Carson and Kasich. I do not want to hear how “lousy” Trump is, anything related to “New York values” in a condescending tone, or how everyone is a “liar.” It takes so much time away from the important issues. This is another area where the Democrats beat you. Their debates are much more civilized than yours. They do not yell or throw fits. Yes, they have tense moments, but it is nowhere near as chaotic as the Republican debates. Voters want to hear about what you are going to do to fix this country. They want to know how you will keep us safe and provide jobs. The unemployed do not care for your hissy fits and name calling. They want to know who is going to help grow the economy and create job opportunities. Keep your focus on your voters, not each other. A clean campaign would not be the worst idea.
As I have said before, I consider myself in the middle of the road. If I had to vote tomorrow, instead of November, I don’t know if I would honestly vote for anyone. I believe it is important to vote and exercise your voice, but I am not a huge fan of any of the candidates across the board. I know I am not alone in feeling this way. For the next debate, I would really like to see more presidential behavior. Name bashing, fighting, and complaining will not cut it. I also would like topics such as education and jobs discussed more, even if it is not in the debate and just your own event or interview.
Sincerely,
A very concerned millennial voter
