Michigan’s Young Voters Expose Political Challenges for Biden Months After Israel-Hamas Conflict began

Recent University of Michigan graduates, Jade Gray and Anushka Jalisatgi, are feeling a mix of emotions as they reflect on their college experience amidst political turmoil. As co-presidents of the campus College Democrats, they are concerned about the deep political problems President Joe Biden faces in Michigan, a crucial battleground state.

The campus was recently home to a pro-Gaza encampment, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the region and its impact on young voters. Gray and Jalisatgi, part of a 2024 CNN project, are witnessing a shift in sentiment among their peers towards Biden.

Summer Matkin, a freshman at Wayne State, expressed doubts about Biden’s handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict and is considering voting third party. Similarly, Maya Siegmann, a Wayne State student, acknowledges Biden as the “less bad option” but remains critical of his age and policies.

Ibrahim Ghazal, a Wayne State law student of Palestinian descent, emphasizes the need for a change in Biden’s approach to the conflict to earn the support of Arab and Muslim communities in Michigan.

Despite their reservations, Gray and Jalisatgi plan to support Biden in the upcoming election, citing the alternative as unacceptable. They hope that a break from campus activism will allow younger voters to see the bigger picture and make an informed decision.

As emotions run high and political tensions escalate, the 2024 election in Michigan promises to be a critical moment for young voters like Gray, Jalisatgi, Matkin, Siegmann, and Ghazal as they navigate their political beliefs and priorities.