The 2024 Election Special Issue

By Collegian Staff

November 1, 2024

Graphic by Shannon Moore. Daily Collegian (2024)

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, millions of Americans will head to the polls to cast their ballots for one of the most consequential presidential elections in the history of the United States. The country has faced unprecedented turbulence over the last few years, and no matter which party line you prefer, it can be difficult to know when that light at the end of the tunnel will suddenly appear.

There are many issues at the forefront of this election, like women’s reproductive rights, healthcare, immigration, the economy, climate crisis, housing, LGBTQIA+ legislation, gun control, even democracy.

These concerns are on the minds of young people across the country. For many UMass students, and staff at The Massachusetts Daily Collegian, this is the first time we are voting in a presidential election. We’ve seen not only how our parents, grandparents and family members have voted in the past, but how they’ve been affected by the policies our public servants sign off on.

Since its establishment in 1890, the Collegian has covered statewide to national politics through the lens of students. Now, in an age of social media and rampant disinformation, truth can feel hard to find. In this paper-wide special issue, we strive to highlight a variety of voices. From local pre-election events and ballot questions, to robust opinion pieces and past coverage of some historic races, it’s our duty to educate UMass and the greater Amherst community on what’s at stake.

Do your research and go vote. Ensure that you play a part in deciding the future of our country. It’s in the DNA of UMass students to make your voice heard and help shape a better world.

Signed,

Caitlin Reardon, Editor-in-Chief & Johnny Depin, Managing Editor