Kaitlyn Benko is anxious about November’s election.
“It’s my first time voting so I’m nervous,” said the sophomore Psychology major. “I don’t know what the paper or machine looks like. I know that there’s going to be other people besides the presidential candidates to vote for and I don’t know any of them.”
Still, Benko is concerned about the issues confronting the country.
“I’m focused on policies involving the economy, the border and war,” she said. “I don’t want us to go to war over other countries’ conflicts. The border needs to be closed. We can’t have an open border. Bad things are happening because of it. People are being murdered and resources are being used up. Most countries don’t have border policies like we do and that’s a serious problem.”
She said the economy is a major factor for her.
“The economy is really bad right now,” said Benko. “Everyone’s struggling to live. If you’re not making millions then you’re living paycheck-to-paycheck. I know I am.
“I don’t know an exact policy I’m in favor for, but I do know that I want the economy fixed. I’m tired of everything being so expensive,” she said. “Rent needs to go down, the cost of living needs to go down, the price of gas needs to go down. It’s just that nobody’s happy right now and I think that an improved economy would change a lot.”
She wants the next president to address these issues.
“I’m looking for someone who’s good at their job,” Benko said. “Someone who knows what they’re doing, has good policies, and who isn’t just up there for show and power.”
BenkoShe admits to being excited that Vice President Kamala Harris is running, but is not convinced that she’s the right candidate to solve the country’s problems.
“I’m really excited more women are getting the chance to run,” Benko said. “But the real question is, is that woman actually fit to do the job? I want a good president first and foremost.”
Abortion matters Benko but she said it takes a back seat to other issues.
“I would like to have it be … legal everywhere,” she said. “But if it means that other more important things get done besides that, then it’s okay if it’s decided by the states.”
By casting her ballot, Benko believes she will contribute to a better future for the country.
“Voting is important because it gets the government back into the hands of the American people,” she said. “Everybody should have a say in being able to voice their opinion in what they want.”
