Election season has arrived across the United States, with midterm and local elections scheduled for early November. This year’s contests are expected to be especially significant, as voters will decide control of Congress, Georgia’s governorship, the state’s General Assembly and numerous local offices that directly affect communities.
Midterm elections historically draw fewer voters than presidential contests, but recent data suggests participation remains substantial. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 52.2% of eligible voters cast ballots in the 2022 midterm elections, reflecting continued engagement despite a slight decline from 2018. However, turnout consistently varies by age, with younger voters participating at lower rates than older groups.
In Georgia, the stakes are particularly high. State leadership positions, including the governor and members of the House and Senate, will shape policies on education, economic development and healthcare. At the local level, elections for city councils, county commissions and school boards could lead to immediate changes in housing policies, infrastructure development and campus-adjacent issues that affect college students.
Students at GCSU say these elections carry real consequences for their futures.
Kindle Reeves, a senior biology major, said political outcomes can influence both academic and personal decisions.
“Elections shape our lives often through the policies of the elected. Economic changes can result in changes to plans for students who plan to study abroad or pursue graduate or professional school. They can additionally shape the political attitude and campus environment for a period of time,” Reeves said.
Reeves added that civic engagement is a key part of adulthood.
“I think staying informed and involved is a part of integration into society as an adult. Participation in society is important, as it helps shape our future as a community and makes students take responsibility for their actions.”
Other students emphasized the broader economic and accountability impacts of elections.
Stephen Giannou, a freshman history and philosophy major, said voting plays a role in maintaining government oversight.
“I think elections are important because, for one, they impact everyone. A lot of people don’t realize that politics can influence the economy drastically. The second reason I think they are important is accountability. I think a lot of people get wrapped up in the idea of being in a ‘swing state’ or ‘safe state.’ By going out and just voting and doing your part, it helps to keep our elected officials in check. This will also make sure the issues you care about are followed through on,” Giannou said.
Giannou also pointed to how policy decisions affect students directly, particularly in areas like employment and housing.
“I think it is important for students to vote because they are some of the most impacted by political change. Their futures and living situation are on the line. The economy can impact hiring decisions, and that can determine whether or not graduating students are able to get jobs. It can also affect the amount of students colleges are admitting and even grad schools. On top of this, living situations are also impacted. I often hear students talk about paying exorbitant prices for apartments while only receiving basic amenities. I think it’s important that students vote because that vote can help them to change their situations.”
Looking ahead, Giannou offered his own outlook on the election cycle.
“I have a lot of predictions for this election season. I definitely see the house going towards the Democrats, and I think history agrees with me. As for the Senate, I am pretty split. I am deeply interested in the Texas senate race, and I think if that seat goes to a Democrat, we can probably see the senate go that way also.”
As Election Day approaches, national trends suggest turnout could again play a decisive role. Analysts note that higher participation in recent elections has been driven in part by increased political polarization and heightened public interest in policy outcomes.
For students and residents alike, the upcoming elections represent more than a routine civic exercise. The results will help determine leadership at every level of government, shaping policies that influence education, economic opportunities and daily life in communities across Georgia.