The midterm elections across the country hold a lot of power in determining the future political balance of power. Here at Hill, students interested in politics are encouraged to share their voice as much as possible. The Young Democratic Socialist Club and the Young Republican Club offer a venue for these discussions. In the race for governor, the House, and Senate, the leaders of these clubs were interviewed for their views of this election. The Young Republicans Club president Cole Bilotta ’23 and Young Democratic Socialists Club president Nimala Sivakumar ’23answered questions and shared their opinions about the major issues facing students.

Q: What do you think are the most important things to do before voting? 

CB: I think looking out for misinformation is very big. For example, where you get your sources like news. Another thing is being aware of specific matters that are important to you and ones that you care about. If you can vote, looking at multiple candidates and researching beforehand is an effective way to keep yourself informed. 

NS: Definitely research, and from credible sources. There are great ways to do this, check the New York Times especially, since we have a free subscription to them as part of the Hill School body. Also, check the process for voting in your state. For some states, this means bringing in ID and proof of residency in that state, for other states, it is entirely different. Also, if the voting booth closes and you are in line, you have the legal right to vote. Do not feel the need to leave! You are fulfilling your civic duty. 

Q: Speaking for your club, if your desired candidate won the election, how would you feel? 

 CB: This is an important election in Pennsylvania as well as throughout the country. The Senate is very tight and if our party won, it would be beneficial to take control. This is important for the future and the values we believe in. 

 NS: For me personally, it would be a matter of the lesser of two evils. This is how I felt during the 2020 presidential election, it was not that I loved Biden, but I would have preferred him over Trump. In that same sense, even if my preferred candidate won, there is still plenty of change that needs to be followed through. 

Q: Do you think the results of this election could personally impact you? 

 CB: Yes, I most definitely do. Like I said, this is an important election, and this determines how our country operates during the next few years leading up to the presidential or larger elections for this country. 

 NS: Definitely. As a soon-to-be college student, turning 18 is something on my mind often. When it comes to some colleges I am applying to, birth control access is one of the things I keep in mind. In some states, IUDs are being put under fire for killing ‘fertilized eggs,’ with the charged term often used being ‘babies.’ Having access to birth control is one of these things that I consider extremely important, and beyond that, since I care for the general, I want to make sure that children and adults have access to the rights they deserve.