It’s official, folks. The Associated Press announced Wednesday morning that Donald Trump has officially won the 2024 election, while Democratic challenger Kamala Harris quickly issued her concession later that afternoon.
Students at Texas A&M University-San Antonio are displaying a range of emotions regarding Trump’s election victory, with some expressing enthusiasm for the prospect of another Republican administration, while others are grappling with disappointment over the outcome.
Psychology junior Leonardo Trevino-Garza emphasized his support for Harris, citing her first-time home buyer initiatives and advocacy for pro-choice rights as key factors in his decision to vote for her.
“My hopes for Kamala’s administration were that she would have improved the economy, especially concerning housing affordability,” Trevino-Garza stated. “I was also optimistic that she would work to legalize abortion and make healthcare more accessible, which aligns with the values championed by the Democratic party, as far as I can discern.”
Trevino-Garza expressed his concerns about Trump’s understanding of tariffs and taxes, specifically regarding how his proposed policies might impact average citizens.
“I also worry that his policies will disproportionately benefit the wealthy. I am particularly concerned about the women in my life and my friends within the LGBTQ community,” Trevino-Garza elaborated. “While I am personally disappointed by the election results, it reflects the choice made by the electorate.”
Business management sophomore Michael Mikhail voiced his support for Trump, citing his alignment with Republican ideals and principles as motivating factors in his vote.
“I appreciate the way they govern and their perspectives on various issues,” Mikhail stated confidently.
Mikhail also highlighted his hope that Trump will take decisive actions regarding border security and urgent matters such as tax reform and healthcare improvements.
“Securing the borders is one of my main hopes, along with tax reductions. I also wish for him to tackle challenges related to Medicare and healthcare,” he articulated.
English junior Erque Olguin cited his support for Trump as rooted in the candidate’s stance on immigration and economic policies. He remains optimistic that Trump’s presidency could usher in significant changes for the nation.
Olguin remarked that the election results indicated “a significant realignment among the working class and the typical American citizen.”
Spanish junior Zach Zambrano expressed his dismay over the election’s outcome, noting that he voted for Harris in hopes of fostering change.
“This result is different from what I had anticipated, but I sense that there are deeper cultural issues at play,” Zambrano reflected. “There’s a palpable weariness and a growing question among people: ‘Is it still worth it to try and convince others to care?’”
Trump amassed a total of 6,369,706 votes, accounting for 56.3% of the total in Texas, while Harris gathered 4,795,084 votes, representing 42.4% of the electorate.
Securing Texas not only solidified Trump’s influence but also awarded him 40 crucial electoral votes, contributing to his overall total of 295 electoral votes, which surpasses the 270 required for victory.
Trump is set to assume office on January 20, 2025, marking a historical milestone as he will be the oldest individual elected to the presidency at the age of 78.
**Interview with Political Science Professor Dr. Emily Rivera on the 2024 Presidential Election Outcome**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rivera. The news outlets are reporting that Donald Trump has officially won the 2024 presidential election, and Kamala Harris has conceded. What are your thoughts on this surprising turn of events?
**Dr. Rivera:** Thank you for having me. It is indeed a significant development. Trump’s victory marks a return to the White House for him, and it raises numerous questions about the direction of U.S. policy and governance. The perception of his administration’s performance will greatly influence how Americans, especially younger voters like those at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, assess the future.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of younger voters, we’ve seen varied reactions on campus. Some students, like Leonardo Trevino-Garza, expressed disappointment, particularly with concerns over economic policies and social issues. How do you interpret this generational divide?
**Dr. Rivera:** It’s a fascinating phenomenon. Many younger voters prioritize issues like healthcare access, housing affordability, and reproductive rights—areas often highlighted by Democratic candidates. When their preferred candidates don’t win, it can lead to feelings of disenfranchisement. The concerns raised by Trevino-Garza about Trump’s policies disproportionately affecting marginalized communities reflect a larger societal divide we are witnessing.
**Interviewer:** On the other hand, students like Michael Mikhail expressed strong support for Trump, aligning with Republican ideals. What factors do you think contributed to this sentiment?
**Dr. Rivera:** For many voters, especially those leaning Republican, Trump’s policies resonate with their beliefs about limited government, economic growth, and national security. Mikhail’s appreciation for these principles indicates a desire for a governance style that emphasizes traditional values and personal responsibility. This reflects a broader trend where parties drive voters’ determination to engage, particularly with the Republican platform focusing on perceived economic improvement and a strong stance on immigration.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what challenges do you anticipate for Trump’s administration as he navigates a deeply divided nation?
**Dr. Rivera:** Trump’s administration will likely face significant challenges in uniting a polarized electorate. Issues like healthcare, climate change, and social justice will continue to prompt intense debates. Additionally, maintaining party unity amid differing views will be critical, especially with moderates and progressives within both parties vying for influence. Addressing the concerns of younger voters while advocating Republican policies will require careful balancing.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Rivera, for your insights. It’s clear that the impact of this election will resonate for years to come, influencing both policy and public sentiment.
**Dr. Rivera:** Absolutely. Thank you for discussing these important issues with me.
