As the state of Georgia proves to be a focal point in the upcoming presidential election, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz visited the Atlanta University Center on National Voter Registration Day to encourage students to register and get educated.

Walz, the Vice-Presidential nominee on the Democratic ticket headed by current Vice President Kamala Harris, began his talk at the event hosted by AUC Students for Harris by reminding young people that this will be the first time they can vote for someone who has their best
interest at heart.

“You hear her talk about being a president for all of America,” Walz said. “For those of you who are young, this is like an amazing thing to hear. That’s the way it used to be in this country. That’s the way it often is.”

Kaylen Spencer, a 2018 Spelman graduate, and Campus Director for the Democratic Party of Georgia is currently leading the Harris campaign efforts in the AUC. In her introduction of Tim Walz, Spencer reminded the audience of the importance of every single vote and urged them to do the “little things” that will make a difference.

“Please grab three friends,” Spencer said. “Ask, ‘Who are you voting for? Do you have a voting plan? Do you need a ride? Do you need help?’ I’m here every Wednesday and every Friday to ensure that no stone is left unturned.”

One of the major things Walz discussed during his talk with AUC students has been one of the major talking points during this season: the future of our economy.

“We can decide if we are going to make sure that this is an economy that works for everyone,” Walz said. “We can debate the differences of policy: whether it is one that works for everyone or one that works for billionaires. We can debate whether we are going to side with pharmaceutical companies or we’re going to make insulin and other drugs available for people… [the Republican ticket] is a group of people that decided, as they drove up the deficit and cut taxes for billionaires, to leave the middle class behind.”

One of many Morehouse students in the Be Coffee Shop with Walz was first-year student Kennedy Thomas. A first-time voter, Thomas was impressed by Walz’s wholesale support of Vice President Harris and her ideals.

“He fully supported Kamala and her purpose,” Walz said. “Some people want to make everything about themselves. Some of the things he said you hear often; it was good to hear that he wants to do what he can to get fully behind Kamala.”

This election will come down to citizens without a long voting history and detailed political education. In swing states like Georgia, first-time registrants and the youngest votes will play a pivotal role in the outcome of this election. Thomas has noticed the efforts of the Harris
campaign in reaching young people and appreciates their intentionality. He is confident that this will prove important when it is time to cast his ballot.

“I think it is important,” Thomas said. “We are in a swing state. A lot of older people have their mind set on who they want to vote for and why they want to vote for them. We are going to be the swaying votes, and they know and care about us for more than our vote. That matters to me.”