BUCKS COUNTY, PA – After a very close race and record-breaking presidential campaigns, Trump won the election 312-226, winning all seven swing states, including Pennsylvania. With this race came controversial and polarizing topics. 

For Democrats, this included abortion and the security of Democracy in the United States. For Republicans, the most important issues were immigration and the economy. While there has been political tension and division in the media, what do the students of Neshaminy think about the 2024 election?

One student, a female senior who wished to remain anonymous, explained her complex thoughts about the election: “This year’s election was scary for both sides. No matter who won I was going to worry [about] what might happen to our country so I really just have to deal with the outcome.”

Mixed feelings are not uncommon. However, some saw neither candidate as sufficient enough.

“This election was very difficult for voters because many Americans were put in the position to choose between societal [and] economic views,” another anonymous senior explained. “I believe that there was not an ideal candidate for any side, but at the end of the day, the choice that was made by voters was justified due to the conditions of our economy and how badly the American people are struggling due to these issues. Both sides had very good arguments, but one was easier for the American people to believe.”

Some were tired of the countless barrage of politics and relentless news coverage, happy that it was over and a winner was declared.

“The country as a whole can breathe a sigh of relief now that a president has been elected that is for the people, the working class people, and not for the people of other countries,” another anonymous 12th-grader explained. “America is first.” 

While there was a lot of support for both candidates and this presidential race was one of the closest in history, many weren’t surprised with the outcomes on election night.

“Well I wanted Kamala to win but honestly Trump winning was pretty expected,” an NHS sophomore explained. “Kamala didn’t have a particularly strong campaign or public stance on controversial topics and Trump openly said his [views] and held more personal rallies, talking in front of crowds, public events such as the McDonald’s [event], etc.” 

While some were nervous about the results of the election and its implications, some are hopeful for the future. 

“Although this election did not come with the results I had hoped for, I know that this is not the end for women in leadership,” one female senior explained. “I think Harris’ concession speech brought hope to those that supported her, specifically when she said ‘Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars’. I think that quote is the light that lots of disappointed voters will be holding onto.”