Staff Reports
A recent Harvard poll revealed that only 2% of people ages 18-29 see the Israel-Hamas conflict as the most important issue. When comparing the conflict to other matters, 61% of respondents said it was of lesser concern. The economy was the top issue for young voters, followed by illegal immigration and inflation. Inflation was seen as the most pressing issue by 64% of respondents, while student debt and abortion rights were also important to some.
President Joe Biden has been focusing heavily on abortion rights and introducing measures to eliminate student debt, while inflation continues to rise. Meanwhile, anti-Israel protests at college campuses, including Columbia University, have received significant support from students and some politicians, such as “Squad” Rep. Ilhan Omar’s daughter. This has been a central issue for Biden’s campaign, as he is striving to appeal to young voters. However, 76% of young people disapprove of how he is handling the conflict, and 60% are not closely following the war in Gaza.
Regarding the U.S.’s alliance with Israel and Gaza, a large portion of respondents were unsure, showing a lack of clarity on these important foreign policy issues. Despite Biden leading Trump by 7% among young voters, his approval rating among people ages 18-29 is only 31%, and the majority believe the country is on the wrong track. Additionally, many young voters were unenthusiastic about their choice of Biden, while young Trump voters were largely enthusiastic about their decision.
