It’s widely recognized that Black Americans, especially Black women, played a vital role in helping President Joe Biden win the presidency nearly four years ago.

This year has started on a different note.

In key swing states, a growing number of young Black men indicate their support for Republican candidate Donald Trump. Additionally, the voting behavior of Black voters—particularly the youth—could sway the outcome based on their participation rates.

However, choosing not to vote can be seen as a significant expression of disillusionment among Black Americans, especially considering the difficult history tied to the struggle for voting rights.

I was raised in a family that emphasized the importance of casting a vote—always. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed just seven years before I was born into Generation X. My mother and aunt, who moved from the deep South to the Midwest, have vivid memories of lacking the right to vote and of those who died fighting for Black voter registration.

Nevertheless, recent polls indicate a troubling trend that would leave my mother and aunt uneasy. This year, more Black Americans are unsure about voting in the upcoming 2024 presidential election compared to their engagement in 2020.

A few months back, many cited specific reasons for this uncertainty. Young voters expressed their dissatisfaction with the options presented: two elderly, White men who seemed disconnected from their concerns.

Then came Vice President Kamala Harris. The presence of a Black woman as a candidate on the Democratic ticket has certainly sparked renewed enthusiasm among voters I spoke with, a sentiment they didn’t share just two months earlier.

As the election cycle unfolded and conventions progressed, I continued my discussions with voters.

They shared their thoughts about this electoral dilemma and considered the possibility of abstaining from voting.

Most older voters told me this isn’t an option. Black voter turnout has historically lagged behind that of White voters, except in 2012 during President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign, and it may drop again this year.

Conversely, the influence of Black voters might be stronger than ever. Since 2012, the percentage of eligible Black voters has increased across most key states. Georgia, specifically, experienced the most significant growth, with an increase of 4 percentage points in Black voters. Most other swing states have also seen increases, according to U.S. Census data, with Michigan being a noted exception.

I spoke with a diverse group of Black voters in the seven battleground states to gauge their voting intentions and motivations. Selecting two individuals from each state allowed me to capture the conversations taking place across generations—dialogues occurring over lunch, in barbershops, during family gatherings, and on social media. Some voiced discontent, while others were optimistic.

For my family, voting remains a moral obligation. It is a right we as Americans hold, and for me, it’s a lifelong commitment to honor the struggles of my ancestors who fought to secure that right.

While engaging with voters in swing states, I sought to understand what the Civil Rights Movement and the right to vote signify to them. Equally essential was listening to their perspectives on the issues they care about the most.

ARIZONA

A moral compass that syncs with Trump

Derrick Hall Jr.

• Age: 38 (Millennial)
• Location: Tempe, Arizona
• Occupation: Employee at Costco

Derrick Hall Jr. was raised in a military family, with his father serving in the Air Force. Although born in Japan, he spent his upbringing in Mississippi, California, Texas, and Guam, before settling in Arizona. Currently, he aspires to be a rapper, participating in open mic nights during his leisure time.

As a Black man, Hall states that he has not faced overt racism or felt oppressed due to his race.

“I grew up in diverse environments, interacting with people from various cultures and ethnicities,” he expressed. “This experience enabled me to adapt and connect with individuals from all walks of life, for which I am grateful.”

Hall has worked at Costco since he was 19. Raised in a religious setting, his parents instilled in him strong conservative family values, leading him to view abortion as morally wrong.

Currently, Hall finds himself undecided about the upcoming presidential election. He does not align himself with either political party, instead prioritizing issues that resonate with him. He admits, however, that his beliefs tend to align more closely with those of the Republican Party.

“I have strong religious beliefs,” Hall said. “While I wouldn’t label myself as a staunch Trump supporter, I connect with certain key issues, such as my views on abortion and same-sex marriage.

“I hope to have children one day, and I believe that a family is defined as a union between a man and a woman. I struggle to accept the notion of two women or two men raising a child as a family unit.

The original family plan resonates deeply with me. While I’m not heavily invested in politics or aligned with a specific political party, the values I hold dear can influence my voting choices. If a significant number of people within a party share my beliefs, I’m inclined to support them.”

Despite this, he finds Harris to be engaging and easy to connect with.

“To be frank, I don’t think my life will change drastically,” he admitted. “I don’t place my hopes in things or individuals.”

An undecided voter seeks what’s best for America

Michael Hastert

• Age: 33 (Millennial)
• Location: Chandler, Arizona
• Job: Employee at a Costco gas station

Michael Hastert, who graduated from Arizona State University, is appreciative of Republicans who stand up for Americans’ gun rights. However, he does not identify with a single political party.

“I lean slightly more right than left but generally consider myself to be in the center,” explained Hastert, originally from Chicago. He was mainly raised by his single mother and grandparents. The tragic loss of his brother in a motorcycle accident in 2014 shifted his perspective on politics, as they had dreamt of building generational wealth together, possibly sharing a home.

Currently, he’s focused on his financial situation.

“During President Obama’s administration, I felt things were fairly affordable and improving. Under President Trump, the economy seemed to accelerate. Then Biden took office, and I’m unsure what happened. Prices have just skyrocketed. I had a little more financial freedom during Trump’s presidency, not necessarily because I supported him, but I had extra funds for things like vacations. Now, I’m living paycheck to paycheck.”

The last two elections have posed challenges for him, as he relates to both sides. He sees the necessity of enhancing public education and affordable transportation, which he associates with the Democratic agenda, while also favoring Trump’s economic strategies. He remarks on the perceived chaos during Biden’s administration and a lack of clear solutions, although he acknowledges that the current government handled the COVID-19 crisis well.

He definitely plans to vote but believes his choice will be complicated.

“I have nothing against Kamala,” he stated. “But I’m aware that all candidates can be deceptive. I want to choose the one who seems to offer the best path for the future. When you really analyze it, both candidates are capable. Kamala could persuade me, but I’m leaning about 60-40 or 55-45 towards Trump. I genuinely believe he wants what’s best for America, and that’s what many of us prioritize right now.”

GEORGIA

Carrying a generation’s burdens while hoping to rebuild

Jordan Brown

• Age: 30 (Millennial)
• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Job: State advisor for the Movement Voter Project

Jordan Brown has experienced firsthand the impact of loss when her brother Marlon was tragically killed in 2013 by a police officer in DeLand, Florida.

Marlon had been pulled over for allegedly not wearing a seatbelt. After hitting a dead-end, he exited the vehicle and tried to escape.

“Some people might say, ‘He shouldn’t have run,’” Brown reflected. “But he was a Black man in Florida.”

Marlon was trapped under the police car, and the coroner concluded he died from suffocation. Years passed before Jordan could bear to watch the dashcam footage, and it still brings her to tears.

As the daughter of a retired Atlanta Police officer, Jordan is aware that many Black men fear police encounters, often leading them to run, sometimes with deadly consequences.

At 19 and a Georgia State University student with aspirations to become an industrial psychologist, the tragic event drove her to seek change in the face of injustice. After graduating, she transitioned into philanthropic work aiming to raise funds that could influence policy.

Realizing there was a gap in her outreach, she began volunteering for local political campaigns to educate voters on critical issues. This became her way to give back to her country and community.

“As I consider this election, I think about my loved ones,” she said. “Especially my two nieces, aged 22 and almost 16. I constantly remind them that if they aren’t willing to get involved politically, they don’t care about anything. We have the power to shape our future through our votes and beyond.”

Brown sees affordable housing as the most urgent issue in Georgia, as countless Americans hope to purchase homes and create generational wealth but struggle simply to pay their rent.

Conversations with millennials often revolve around student loans and overwhelming debt, leaving them feeling trapped without viable solutions. Meanwhile, older generations express frustration over healthcare costs and insurance affordability. Those in between are eager to start families but feel they must delay due to financial limitations. Brown notes that women are particularly concerned about reproductive rights and the ongoing efforts to undermine them.

“Our country is in a dire state for many people. However, young Americans are demonstrating their commitment to change through protests and activism,” she remarked. “The next president will play a crucial role in our rebuilding efforts, but we recognize it’s ultimately up to us to dismantle the outdated systems in place. There’s a refreshing hope for transformation.”

When the top issue is apathy

Deborah Neal

• Age: 64 (Baby Boomer)
• Location: Decatur, Georgia
• Job: Retired teacher

Deborah Neal shares a sorority affiliation with Kamala Harris. She attended the University of Tennessee at Martin, while the vice president studied at Howard University.

Neal actively campaigns for Harris, visiting malls and public venues to encourage voter registration. This is her way of supporting a candidate who could become the first Black woman president of the United States.

She acknowledges that Alpha Kappa Alpha is a nonpartisan organization.

These sisters are unable to represent the sorority officially, but each can engage in volunteering on their own. They have the ability to encourage voter registration, which might involve getting younger cousins or even older relatives who have never voted to finally head to the polls.

“I think many people supported President Biden, but they didn’t view him as the most formidable candidate,” Neal shared. “We care for him deeply, like he’s our grandfather. Sometimes you have to take away the keys and have those tough discussions. When he acknowledged it, we felt a sense of relief. It’s hard to tell Joe to step aside, but now we feel revitalized with a candidate we can truly support.”

Neal has a clear preference for who she wants to see succeed. However, her primary concern is simply that people participate in elections. She holds a strong belief in democracy, which is her top priority this election cycle. Having recently retired from her role as a schoolteacher, she’s worried about the indifference shown by some young individuals.

If she were still in the classroom, she would advocate for civility above all else. “Vote however you see fit,” she urges, “but always be kind.”

“It’s really disheartening to hear some of the hurtful comments that Trump and his supporters make about VP Harris. We know they’re not accurate, and it’s embarrassing to see Trump behaving this way. When I encounter these rumors, I advise people: ‘Don’t even pay attention to that. Ignore it; it’s just toxic.’ It frustrates me that they spread these lies and negative narratives about her.”

MICHIGAN

A grandfather reflects on men’s perceptions of the future

A. Nzere Kwabena

• Age: 59 (Generation X)
• Lives in: Detroit
• Profession: Executive Director of LGBT Detroit

A. Nzere Kwabena is a grandfather to three little girls – twins born in August and another who is just 5 months old. They mean everything to him. If he could wish for anything, it would be to eliminate misogyny and racism for their future.

However, during this election, he’s worried that these issues might worsen, particularly due to Harris being a Black woman.

“I’m apprehensive that misogyny is going to peak,” he stated. “I foresee more harm coming to women. I anticipate that certain men, especially those who feel marginalized, will act out. And I believe that racism, particularly from white males, will escalate. I think these scenarios are likely. Although I know she’s the right choice for the role, I fear that this country won’t acknowledge it because sexism is more prominent than racism here.”

Nonetheless, he views Harris as a beacon of hope. Kwabena predicts that this election will be “very competitive,” especially in Michigan, which has a significant Middle Eastern demographic. Many of these voters, particularly the youth, feel let down by the Biden/Harris administration in relation to the ongoing conflicts.

“Young people, in particular, expected Harris to take a definitive stand,” he explained. “This means choosing a side. Her neutral position might lead many to abstain from voting. I think she needs to engage with residents in Michigan who sympathize with the Middle Eastern situation.”

Witnessing the past, envisioning the future

Brian Smith

• Age: 67 (Baby Boomer)
• Lives in: Detroit
• Profession: Professor

When Brian Smith isn’t teaching biology, chemistry, math, and physics at Wayne County Community College, he’s busy helping teenagers learn to fly.

Yes, literally.

Smith runs the Tuskegee Airmen Flight Academy and serves as president of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum. The academy trains high school students for careers in aviation, including becoming pilots and air traffic controllers.

He owns a plane and often uses it for his teaching. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first all-Black fighter pilot squadron in the U.S. military, providing bomber escort during World War II. The first class of aviation cadets started in July 1941 and completed training in March 1942, as documented by the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum. Between 1941 and 1946, around 1,000 Black pilots were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama.

Smith strives to keep this important history alive by providing aviation education and sharing the potential for rewarding careers, especially for Black youth.

This legacy is what he aspires for his country as well. For him, a lifelong Democrat, this presidential election holds great significance.

“I’m supporting those who are genuinely concerned about the welfare of underprivileged communities,” Smith said.

His preferred candidates? Initially Biden, now Harris.

“I was committed to voting for Biden, regardless of anything,” Smith remarked. “There are countless reasons I can’t support Trump. Another Trump presidency feels like a return to slavery, creating an unchecked environment for white supremacist groups. They would act with impunity, bolstered by the judges Trump has appointed, much like they did in the ‘50s and ‘60s. They’d kill a Black person and be acquitted.”

Smith has a personal connection to the history of racial unrest. He spent his youth on the campus of Oakwood University, a historically Black institution in Huntsville, Alabama, where his father was a professor. He experienced the Civil Rights Movement firsthand and learned the importance of standing up for what is right.

Currently, he aims to inspire his students, both the aspiring pilots and those attending community college, to take a stand as well. He believes it all begins with education. However, he worries that they are too consumed with navigating their current lives. They are troubled by the expenses of college and the implications of student loan debt. He strives to remain unbiased while also informing them about policies that could either aid or hinder them, such as loan forgiveness.

“At least they are open to listening,” Smith noted.

NEVADA

As a new citizen, embracing a voice and a vote

Leonor Paulo

• Age: 25 (Generation Z)
• Lives in: Las Vegas
• Profession: Singer/songwriter/model

Leonor Paulo was born in Angola and immigrated to the United States when she was just 4 years old, fleeing from war. Initially, her family found refuge in Portugal—Paulo was a baby, and Portuguese was her first language due to Angola’s colonization—before eventually settling in Las Vegas.

Raised by a single mother, Paulo’s father passed away the same year they moved to America. However, she values the African principles instilled in her upbringing. Her mother raised two of her cousins, whom she regards as brothers, as if they were her own children. This is a typical practice in Black families.

“It’s certainly due to my mom’s desire for us to have a better life,” Paulo remarked.

Paulo is currently studying at Berklee

Located in Boston, the College of Music is where she honed her singing skills starting at the age of six. Currently, she is engaged in online courses to enhance her music writing and vocal abilities while working as a health insurance agent to sustain herself and pursue her aspirations. She performs in various venues such as clubs in Las Vegas, weddings, lounges, family reunions, and restaurants.

This upcoming presidential election marks her first opportunity to cast a vote. Although she became a U.S. citizen in 2019, she felt unprepared to participate in the 2020 elections.

In preparation for her first vote, she dedicated time to understanding the American governmental system by becoming active with the National Action Network.

“I definitely feel that politics and voting can be daunting for me, particularly since I’m from Angola. My family wasn’t around to educate me on the importance of voting or what each candidate represents,” she shared. “Voting is crucial because it places individuals in positions who can create laws and regulations that affect our lives.”

“I support Kamala Harris because of her views on reproductive rights and her stance regarding immigration reform. As an immigrant, those issues resonate with me, and I appreciate her vision for an opportunity-based economy.”

Big Dreams in a Small Business

La’rell Wysinger

• Age: 17 (Generation Z)
• Lives in: Las Vegas
• Profession: High school senior and food truck entrepreneur

La’rell Wysinger has already pre-registered to vote at 17. While he won’t be able to vote in the upcoming election, he looks forward to participating in future elections. He aims to educate himself on policies before entering the voting booth, showcasing the value of civic involvement at a young age.

As a young entrepreneur – yes, he owns a food truck at just 17 – Wysinger is motivated to ensure the government supports his business endeavors while he dreams of attending culinary school in the future.

His food truck, named “Chily Barkers,” features an inventive menu with highlights like “The Fat Boy,” a hot dog topped with mac & cheese, baked beans, BBQ sauce, and ketchup, and “Love Handles,” which layers cornbread with cabbage, mac & cheese, chicken, and BBQ sauce.

“Engaging in this process is vital to me, especially as a young person. It’s fundamental for our generation’s future – we are the ones who will shape what comes next, and our voices need to resonate, especially regarding economic issues,” he stated.

With help from his mother and stepfather, Wysinger acquired a trailer that he converted into a food truck, along with the necessary permits. His vision is clear: to serve local neighborhoods and schools. With his flexible high school schedule, he dedicates his time to feeding the community.

Cooking has always been his passion, and he is now learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, he is committed to understanding political matters, eager to be informed when it’s his turn to vote.

Wysinger notices that most of his peers are preoccupied with dating, sports, and college applications. However, he is keenly following political debates and researching candidates. He doesn’t share the common view of Donald Trump as a financial expert; rather, he believes Harris will advocate for small businesses like his own.

“Many small businesses are often looked down upon by some states because they compete with larger corporations,” he explained. “It feels like we’re treated similarly to pests in certain views. I want a president who champions small businesses and understands the struggles that families with low incomes face.”

NORTH CAROLINA

Challenges Faced by Black Women in Healthcare

Brunetta Gaither

• Age: 65 (Baby Boomer)
• Lives in: Charlotte, North Carolina
• Profession: Retired shipping and technology expediting clerk

Brunetta Gaither cannot shake off the reality of the over one million Americans lost to COVID, including family members. She believes the pandemic response was mishandled under the tenure of former President Donald Trump.

“I cannot bear the thought of four more years with Trump – it’s unbearable,” she stated. “He is a self-centered individual who prioritizes himself. Numerous lives were lost because of his lack of competence, and now all he seems to care about is evading prison time.”

With a solid educational background and a middle-class professional history in shipping and technology, Gaither is attentive to the rising cost of living for many Americans. The increasing prices of groceries and rent concern her. While she acknowledges that the president does not control inflation or the prices of everyday goods, her knowledge of tariffs gives her insight into economic matters, leading her to believe that Harris presents a better economic strategy for common citizens.

“I believe it’s vital that my voice is heard,” she emphasized. “I have never missed an opportunity to vote, whether local or national.”

The current election, for Gaither, encapsulates significant topics such as reproductive rights alongside economic issues and unemployment. She holds particular concern for women of childbearing age who may suffer without necessary healthcare access, especially among Black women.

“I have a daughter and nieces in childbearing years, as well as nephews. It’s important to recognize that many men also share women’s sentiments around reproductive rights. I feel deep concern for the younger generation and the challenges they’ll face. We all need to unite in the fight for our rights.”

“If you get pregnant and end up having a miscarriage, they expect us to just remain in the parking lot while bleeding out. It’s primarily Black women who are facing this situation,”

A young voter explores her beliefs

Kayla Young

• Age: 23 (Generation Z)
• Location: Monroe, North Carolina
• Occupation: Aspiring medical student

Kayla Young, a Howard University alumna like Kamala Harris, works at a doctor’s office during the day and studies at night, aiming to get into medical school by next fall, with a focus on neurology. Inspired by her mother, a stroke survivor, she is eager to help those dealing with brain injuries.

Young, who recently purchased a home with her mother, recognizes the importance of family support in her journey. She worries for her peers who may lack similar backing, especially considering the country’s uncertain economic outlook and healthcare challenges.

“Young people often adopt the political views of their parents,” Young shared. “Growing up, it was typical for my family to vote Democratic. It was just how things were done. There was never much debate about it.”

However, as she’s matured, she has sought to form her own opinions and educate herself on current issues. She found that her ideals still resonate with the Democratic Party, especially regarding healthcare.

“I didn’t want to be the type to say, ‘I’m voting this way just because that’s how my family has voted.’ I’ve made an effort to understand the policies and the positions of the political parties, which has helped me align my views with the Democratic Party. That’s my stance for this election,” she explained.

As for the current campaign season, Young is frustrated with the personal attacks, harsh rhetoric, and misinformation.

“The political environment has become so ugly,” she remarked. “It feels like we’re no longer playing by fair rules. Sometimes it seems like an absolute circus. Honestly, I believe that shift boils down to one individual.”

That individual, according to her, is Donald Trump.

PENNSYLVANIA

Frustrated with ‘identity politics’

Louis Berry

• Age: 65 (Baby Boomer)
• Location: Rankin, Pennsylvania
• Occupation: Retired janitor

Louis Berry campaigned for Barack Obama in 2008 by going door-to-door to inform voters about Obama’s vision for the future. He cast his vote for Obama that year.

Since then, however, he has abstained from voting in presidential elections.

When November arrives, Berry plans to sit out again. Although he participates in local elections, he feels exhausted by how Democrats presume that Black voters will automatically support them based on historical voting patterns.

“If I were to vote right now, I’d choose Donald Trump. I’m done with identity politics. Kamala is just busy fundraising and giving speeches. Between Biden and Trump, I felt Biden was bound to lose. I prefer Trump’s policies, particularly concerning immigration. They aim to replace us. I’m an independent Black man with my own thoughts. I’m here to send a clear message to the Democratic Party: stop taking us for granted. I’m not alone in this sentiment; many Black men share similar feelings. Hence, if I were to vote today, it would be for Trump. But since I don’t have to vote, I won’t,” he stated.

With over 20 years of experience at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, which is the largest healthcare system in the state, Berry fought for worker protections like unionization for workers in housekeeping, custodial roles, and maintenance, though he was not ultimately successful. His voice was always prominent in those discussions.

Berry prefers to speak up or, at times, choose silence to make his point.

Berry advocates for reparations for Black Americans to address the long-lasting impacts of slavery. He’s observed what he sees as the Democratic Party’s continuous delays on key issues while Black communities have struggled economically.

He believes his position will pave the way for better outcomes for future generations. His ancestors fought for voting rights and civil rights; now, he’s determined to fight for reparations as a means of holding Democrats accountable for unfulfilled promises. He asserts that the party fails to listen to Black Americans, hence he’s sending a message he hopes will resonate.

Concerns overshadowing economic issues

Todd Hollis

• Age: 56 (Generation X)
• Location: Pittsburgh
• Occupation: Civil rights lawyer

Todd Hollis is a single father raising two children. When asked about his main concerns in the upcoming presidential election, he quickly lists civil rights, healthcare, and women’s rights.

But he digs deeper, expressing concerns about the potential for autocracy under Donald Trump, a lack of ethical leadership, and the possibility of election manipulation. Ultimately, he believes it’s essential for people to take part in elections; it’s our responsibility.

“It’s easy to take our freedoms for granted when you haven’t had to fight for them,” he remarked. “You didn’t have to bleed or sacrifice for those freedoms.”

Hollis has confidence in Biden and Harris, viewing them as genuine leaders who don’t seek personal gain from their positions. He contrasts this with Trump, whom he believes exploits the current economic strain to his advantage.

“Some people believe Trump is a better choice because of lower expenses. When you try to explain to them that the president has limited influence over gas prices, it’s evident they lack understanding,” he concluded.