U.S. Election 2024: Perspectives of the Youth and America's Future Direction
The Trump Time Warp: Evaluating Political Consciousness at Bronx Science
For the students at Bronx Science High School, Donald Trump's impact on politics has carved a deep rooted footprint, echoing throughout their educational journey. Since his 2016 rise to power, Trump's presidency and his 2025 comeback have significantly altered the political terrain these students navigate.
This era has birthed a generation of politically astute youth who view politics as more than a distant abstraction. For seniors, Trump's first election transpired when they were merely fourth graders. They have witnessed his divisive rhetoric on immigration, climate change, reproductive rights, and the press, shaping not merely the national discourse, but their own mindset regarding civic responsibility. Moreover, the current ninth graders were in first grade when Trump was elected, making his presence the backbone of their political identity.
This environment has fostered two contrasting responses among Gen Z students. Some exhibit unwavering dedication, keeping abreast of headlines and following policy shifts meticulously. Others, overwhelmed by the constant tumult of the news cycle, retreat into indifference. They see their voices as insignificant amidst a broken system. Both these responses are rooted in a collective frustration at living in a world where instability has become the norm.
As Trump once again seizes the Oval Office, Bronx Science students are left to question the future of the nation and their individual paths.
"In middle school, watching my parents consume political news made me feel anxious and powerless," expressed Veronica Hu '25. "Now, comprehending the gravity of leaders' power makes it difficult not to be apprehensive."
Ella Nahimyas '26 added, "I strive to stay informed, but the constant onslaught of news- executive orders, scandals, outrages- it's like we're all just bracing for the next blow."
Despite their strong convictions and eagerness to participate, many Bronx Science students have been hindered from voting in recent elections due to their age, leading to a shared sense of electoral impotence-particularly during the 2024 election.
Historically, youth voter turnout has lagged behind older demographics. However, the 2020 election saw a change, with a record high youth engagement of over 27% favoring Joe Biden, similar to Barack Obama's 34% margin in 2007. But, the 2024 election saw a reversal, with youth voter turnout dropping significantly, approximately half of young people voting, and Trump's shares among young voters increasing compared to his 2020 performance. Analysts attribute this shift to economic hardship, dwindling faith in Democratic messaging, and targeted conservative strategies on popular platforms like TikTok and Instagram by "Bro" influencers such as Jake Paul and Dave Portnoy.
Bronx Science's diverse political landscape defies initial assumptions. The school, situated in the heart of liberal New York City, houses numerous politically-focused clubs, such as Young Democrats, Young Republicans, the Political Discourse Club, and the esteemed Debate Team. These platforms offer students the opportunity to express their beliefs, engage in meaningful dialogue, and disseminate current event information.
One such student, Sebastian Merkatz '25, played a key role in Bronx Science's Voter Registration Drives preceding the 2024 election, teaming up with fellow student Oscar Allen '25. "Our VOTE (Vote of Teens in Elections) initiative aimed to make registering to vote as exciting and effortless as possible for our peers," said Merkatz. "The 2024 election marked the first election cycle we experienced as young adults, and we hope our spirited promotion of voter registration inspires lifelong civic duty."
After the election, Merkatz continued his focus on civic engagement, coordinating get-out-the-vote initiatives and developing a Vote Promote Toolkit. The kit contains games, posters, and exercises tailored for middle school teachers, designed to inspire the next generation of American voters.
As Bronx Science students navigate Trump's return to power, they do so with heightened consciousness of the stakes. They've grown up in a nation splintered by division, yet resilient. Many have spent their formative years participating in protests, studying legislation, and learning to advocate for themselves and their communities.
They've witnessed the consequences of being disregarded-and the power that arises when they rally together.
As the political landscape evolves, one fact remains clear: the students of Bronx Science are determined to have their voices heard, even if they must wait a little longer to cast their votes.
- The political consciousness of Bronx Science students has been significantly shaped by the history of Donald Trump's political career, as they have navigated his presidency and potential comeback in 2025.
- The news cycle of the Trump era has been a critical feature of the students' political identity, with some remaining vigilant and others retreating into indifference, often due to feelings of powerlessness and frustration.
- The editorial and opinion sections of news outlets have become essential resources for Bronx Science students as they strive to stay informed, form their own opinions, and participate in civic matters, particularly in light of Trump's return to power and the resulting changes in the political landscape.
