Fox News Digital recently visited Lehigh University, located in the swing state of Pennsylvania, to gauge student sentiment ahead of the upcoming election. Situated in Bethlehem, Lehigh is a prominent private college noted for its distinguished alumni, and its location in Northampton County—a pivotal swing county in a crucial swing state—makes it an interesting barometer of political opinion. As the race narrows, students expressed strong support for Vice President Kamala Harris, but acknowledged the tight competition with former President Donald Trump.
Jack Ciavolella, representing the Lehigh University College Democrats, was observed manning a campaign table along with other students and a Harris-Walz campaign volunteer. Tensions and excitement escalate on campus as the election nears, with vibrant displays of campaign signage advocating for Democrats such as Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr., D-Pa., and State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta. Despite Lehigh being abuzz with political fervor, the local College Republicans were not as visible, and a request for comment went unreturned.
The increasing political engagement on campus reflects the rising interest in election issues, noted Ciavolella. He emphasized the significance of Northampton County in the broader electoral landscape, hinting at the critical role students potentially play. Meanwhile, improvements in voting accessibility on campuses like Lehigh’s have made it easier for students, like Eric Cepeda from New York, to register and participate where they study. Cepeda expressed that equal rights and community issues are priorities, believing Harris holds the advantage in addressing college affordability.
Fellow students Ethan and Sophia Ross from New Jersey also weighed in on significant issues like abortion and student loans. They observed heightened political advertising in the region due to Pennsylvania's critical swing status, while maintaining a focus on informed decision-making. The sentiment persists that Harris appeals to young voters, who are seen as a vibrant, mobilized force behind her campaign.
The Lehigh Valley, accommodating other colleges like DeSales University and Moravian University, represents an influential voting bloc in Pennsylvania, with students from local institutions playing a key role. Predictions such as those from students Mina Handelsman and Sophia Ross suggest Harris is favored in Pennsylvania, but anticipate challenges in other swing states. With issues such as the national debt and immigration policies influencing their vote, students signal they are actively engaged and prepared to make their voices heard this election cycle.
