Following the recent 2024 election, young voters across Tulsa are weighing the outcomes and considering what the results mean for their community, according to KTUL. The students, many from the University of Tulsa, voiced a range of reactions that highlight both concern and optimism about future civic engagement.
Republican‑leaning first‑time voter Nathan Robinovitz, who is registered in Texas, described the results as “disappointing,” noting he did not expect the high Democratic turnout. He added that the outcome reflects his frustration with how the current administration has handled foreign wars and affordability for the average citizen.
Democratic‑affiliated student Makayla Goode expressed a blend of surprise and disappointment, while also acknowledging the higher voter turnout compared with previous years. “I’m shocked. I’m not super surprised. A little disappointed, but we had higher voter turnout than in previous years, so that was a little bit more exciting,” she said.
Beyond party lines, several students emphasized that the election reinforced their commitment to stay involved. Alexandria Peck said the experience encouraged her to keep voting and to motivate friends and family to do the same, describing the effort as “a nice feeling of getting sort of like a community together to go out, vote, do something good in whatever political views someone has.”
Caleb Bovell, a young Democratic voter also registered in Texas, spoke about renewed optimism for organizing and participation, even in states where change is often deemed unlikely. “We’re told there’s no point in fighting because there’s never going to be a change… now we’re seeing that work have these amazing outcomes… it gives me another 20 years of hope,” he said.
Despite the enthusiasm, some students remain skeptical about the impact of their votes. Goode noted growing frustration among peers who feel elections in Oklahoma are predetermined, leading some to consider not voting in the future.
All participants agreed that their involvement should not end with a single election. As Bovell put it, the experience has motivated him to become more active in the next election cycle, and Peck said she will continue encouraging others to vote.
What’s next: The students plan to maintain their engagement through voter‑registration drives, community discussions, and preparation for the 2026 election cycle, aiming to sustain the momentum built this year.
Sources: ktul.com
