As the election is steadily approaching, the concern over student voter turnout is emphasized. FAMU has a voting precinct at Efferson Student Union that makes voting more accessible to students, yet its voter attendance has not always been the best.
According to official voter data on LeonVotes.gov, in the most recent election, 1,326 students voted at the FAMU Student Union precinct, about a 16 percent decrease from voter turnout in the 2022 primary elections.
“We look at our historical trends to estimate voter turnout,” Alex Mosca, Public Info Specialist of the Elections office, said. “Although this is an important election, we don’t expect to see a huge turnout since voters at the FAMU student union precinct have declined.”
Almost 73 percent of voters at registered FAMU’s voting precinct are considered inactive voters, according to the LeonVotes.gov website. This puts the majority of FAMU’s registered voters at the precinct at risk of being removed.
Alayah Normari Wilder, a second-year criminal justice scholar, believes turnout at FAMU’s precinct will be good despite its historically low trends.
“Not only is it incredibly convenient for those living on and around campus, but the packed debate watch parties show just how engaged students are,” Wilder stated. “It’s exciting to think about how many people who came out to support those discussions will also show up to vote.”
Wilder also feels there has been a shift in awareness of the importance of voting, which will spark higher turnout.
“I think last year many students didn’t vote because they didn’t realize how crucial it was- I’ll admit I was one of them,” Wilder said. “It’s great to see that there’s now more awareness, not just from campus clubs and organizations but also through word of mouth and events designed to encourage student participation. This shift is really energizing and shows that we’re ready to make our voices heard this time around!”
Mark Earley, Supervisor of Elections for Leon County, stressed the importance of ensuring voter registration for this upcoming election.
“I encourage all eligible but unregistered Leon County residents to register to vote now,” said Earley in a press release. “If you are not registered to vote in Florida by October 7, you cannot cast a ballot in the General Election. Take action today and get registered so you can use your voice in this important election.”
The official deadline to vote passed on Monday, but currently, registered voters can update their records any time before the election. Voters can update and view their registration and election sample ballots at the LeonVotes.gov website.