Tuesday, November 5 marked Election Day. A political race between Vice President Kamala Harris (Dem.) and Former President Donald Trump (Rep.) made it nearly impossible to predict an outcome. Regardless, Academy girls who have turned 18 are eager to participate in this presidential election and make their vote count.

Kenzie Cappy (‘25) said, “As someone who will be 18 this year by the Presidential Election, I have been looking into the voting process. It’s very important to me to be an “educated voter” and take this seriously, so I’m attempting to research both sides of each argument to avoid bias and form my own opinions.”

Making an effort to learn about both candidates can help students establish their own political opinions, so they are well-prepared as they step up to the voting booth. Some students held discussions with family members to develop an informed perspective on the culture of politics. 

Although most Academy girls are eager to vote, it is proven that young people vote significantly less than older citizens. In 2020, while 72 percent of citizens aged 75 and older voted in the United States, only 51 percent of individuals aged 18 to 24 cast their votes. The disparity between ages is alarming. Voting is an integral aspect of the United States and a right that is highly encouraged for citizens to exercise.

AP United States Government and Politics teacher Chandler Jackson said, “Our nation is predicated and built off of the premise of voting. It is crucial that we continue in our pursuit to model the system of governance founded by our founding fathers.”

As a Democracy, America gives its citizens the privilege to vote for a leader who will support their ideals in government in the form of a president. While U.S. citizens are not required to vote, it is one of the best ways to express concerns for the nation. Especially for youth who bring an entirely different perspective and concerns for the future of the country, voting offers a place to express those concerns.

Julia Grammig (‘25) said, “Voting is one of the most impactful ways for students to make their voices heard and shape the future. As students, we bring a unique perspective on issues that impact our generation, from education to climate change, and by voting, we become active participants in shaping solutions. Our votes can drive the change we want to see, so it’s crucial that we take this opportunity seriously and encourage our peers to stay informed and engaged in the democratic process.” 

While the state of Florida offers three main options for voting: in-person, absentee (by mail), and early voting, many Academy girls have chosen to go in-person for their first voting experience.

Jude Whittlesey (’25) said, “After waiting in line for 30 minutes at the Library, one of the volunteers checked my I.D. and handed me a ballot. Then, I filled the ballot out and put it into a machine for it to be counted. On my way out when I grabbed a sticker, the volunteers were very excited that my brother and I got to vote on our 18 birthdays.”

Because a majority of the Academy girls are too young to vote, this year, the L.E.A.D (Legislative Education and Advocacy Development) club at Academy organized a mock election that allowed all high school students to participate in an election. The mock election included an official-looking ballot with lists of candidates for students to choose from, giving them an inside look into what it would be like to participate in an election when they are old enough to cast an official vote. Results from the unofficial poll were announced Wednesday, November 6 after school that were incredibly similar to the results of the 2024 election. With Donald Trump and JD Vance (Rep.) winning the presidency and Rick Scott (Rep.) winning the Florida senate, the girls voted similarly to the majority of the United States. 

Senior Erica Port said, “I voted in person, during early voting at my local library. It was a neat experience to see everyone so excited to participate. Overall, everyone was super nice and I enjoyed exercising my right to vote and will definitely be voting again in local elections and again in four years.”