Abigail Flanagan
PARKVILLE, (M.D.), Nov. 5, 2024 — Election Day is one of the most stressful days of the year for many Americans—the day when the public chooses the next president, along with voting on new amendments and ballot measures. Election locations are swamped from 7 a.m. until they close their doors.
Oakleigh Elementary School, in Parkville, Md, is no exception. Outside the school, the line stretches past the intersection of White Oak Avenue and Leefield Road. Yard signs for various candidates line the roads, representing those on the ballot.
It’s chilly, only in the low 60s, and people are bundled up in sweatshirts to stay warm. They chatter animatedly with friends or others in line about the ballot they’re about to complete. Little children in pajamas cling to their parents, rubbing their eyes and yawning. Many voters are worried about the repercussions of the outcome, and Reagan Britt, 21, is one of them.
“It’s likely to have a negative impact on our community overall because of how split the parties tend to be,” Britt said. “I also worry about violence happening, as we’ve seen in the past.”
“Certain plans that people have in place will set back what we’ve tried to build for the past 100 or so years,” said Owen Barnes, 18.
Dustin Baker, 19, voted today as well. He said this election would affect the community “big time,” specifically citing the ballot measure on reproductive rights as having a significant impact.
Many voters came out to do their civic duty and make sure their voices were heard this election cycle.
“Every vote counts,” Baker said. Barnes expressed a similar sentiment, saying it doesn’t matter who people vote for, as long as they are voting.
Britt offered different advice for voters this year.
“Do your own research,” they said. “Understand how the rest of the world affects us, not just domestic issues.”
This election is expected to be a close race with much at stake, adding to voters’ stress. It will be one to watch closely.