CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — People across the country tuned into the first presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump on Tuesday, where both candidates were looking for a knockout to kickstart the 2024 presidential election season.
Some of those who tuned in included students from Dickinson College in Cumberland County. The school partnered with its student senate to host a watch party, which student body president Andrew Garcia says allowed students from both sides of the political spectrum to come together for proactive discussions.
“Everyone has different beliefs, especially with elections,” Garcia said. "So, by having everyone have a shared space to watch it you can have different opinions, and if you do it in a safe way it's very conducive."
Some of the most important topics for students going into the debate included gun control, immigration and abortion.
“Gun violence, especially with all the school shootings, that’s been really important to me as a student,” said Sarah Cormier, a student at Dickinson College.
Another student, Aaron Plummer, said, “I think a big thing right now going on is the border crisis, just overall trying to get a good idea of how we can control it and keep America safe.”
And with a last-minute candidate change and an assassination attempt already on the 2024 presidential campaign trail, some viewers just wanted to learn more about the candidates on this year’s ballot.
Plummer said his main goal while watching the debate was, “Overall, just trying to get a better feel for both of the candidates and what they stand for.”
More than 200 students attended the Dickinson College watch party, armed with snacks, blankets and even some homework to get them through the debate.
Some attendees said making politics more accessible with events like watch parties can encourage people to become more involved in their government.
“These events kind of garner support and just an overall energy to want to participate, whether that’s through voting or campaigning, for whoever you believe in, whatever side you support,” Garcia explained.
Some students found other ways to make politics more appealing and fun during the debate by making "Debate Bingo" cards.
The squares ranged from possible discussion topics, like former President Donald Trump’s conviction, to moments like Vice President Kamala Harris’ name being mispronounced.