Nervous Trojans hold their breath on Election Day
As election day is finally upon us, CVHS students, staff and community members are on the edges of their seats, expressing feelings of nervousness, anxiety, and even fear about who our next president will be. This election has undoubtedly been one of the most intense and tight runs of the past few elections.
“I think it’s one of not the most important election we will or are going to have in our lifetime. Considering how influential both candidates are, no matter who wins, there will be chaos and riots happening around the US,” said senior Liz Korzinin.
“The ability to vote is a fundamental right that we must continue to cherish,” emphasized Superintendent Ahmadi. “As we exercise the right to vote, it is important to help our students understand that an individuals preference for a candidate or program is personal and must be respected.”
Many nervous students criticized Donald Trump, Republican candidate and former president.
“I’m scared because I feel like this election is so close and I really don’t want Trump to win,” said junior Elena Robuchon.
“Trump is a literal convicted felon, sexual abuser, and a complete idiot,” said senior Armaan Sherzad. “I’m not nervous, but if he wins I’ll probably be deported.”
“One of the things I’m nervous about for this election is women’s rights. Donald Trump is trying to cut out the right to abortion,” expressed junior Astrid Remick.
“I already have my rights and I do not want them taken away. If Trump were to win the election, I’d be in a really horrible position and live a bad life for the next few years,” said sophomore Ben Galli.
While no Trump supporters spoke to The Olympian on election day, a recent newspaper survey showed 30 percent of Trojans support him and 70 percent support Vice President Kamala Harris, a Democrat.
“I chose Donald Trump because I heard that San Francisco has gotten worse under Kamala Harris, while Donald Trump made America’s economy better, and made many alliances with foreign countries when he was president. Although Donald Trump has done some bad things as a person, I think what only matters is what he can do for the country,” said junior Ethan Quach.
With many students at CVHS being first time voters, some are feeling excitement “because I finally get to vote and have a say,” said CVHS parent Anahi Escalera.
However, students are also recognizing that this is an especially anxious time to be a first time voter.
“I believe people in this country really take voting for granted and as a first time voter I believe it is super important to have a voice in the election because my vote can affect the future of politics,” said Kaitlyn Tchang, recent CVHS graduate.
“This election is really terrifying especially when you can’t vote because neither option is 100% perfect for us. Presidents can lie about what they’re going to do and it’s hard to trust so much in one candidate. This election is especially scary with the many human rights on the line and the polls being 50/50 makes me fear for humanity,” said Redwood High School junior Arlo Griffey.
“I knew how important it was for me to vote, especially this election. It was shocking for me to see how many people my age are saying they won’t vote or they’re voting for Trump. I don’t think everyone sees how important this election is, which makes me nervous for the future,” emphasized first-time voter and CVHS graduate Bella Lucas.
“This election is so important because it will shift the outlook of the country; it will be one united and diverse, or one that goes backwards by being full of hate and division,” said CVHS parent Suki Chuaca.
Erika Rayo, Leia Kremer, Elliot Lucas, Madison Lee, Paty Escalera Carrillo, Amaya Rambel, Liana Klausmeyer, Yusef Scott, Sarada Khanal, Natalie Le, Sharlene Goduco, Fanoosa Mustamandi, and Aleksandra Hurka contributed to this report.