Generation X was born between 1965 and 1980 and is known for its independence, being among the newest generations to experience new technology and the latchkey generation.
Each generation may have different voting issues that are more important to them but what do some Gen Xers care about most this election?
Omar Herrera, a Gen Xer born in 1976, voted on Election Day at the Lecroy Center along with his daughter, who is a student at Richland.
The main voting issues Herrera is focused on are economy, freedom and peace. “Because the economy isn’t too good,” Herrera said .
Herrera said he believes the majority of the whole world cares most about the economy and peace.
Kimberly Blevins, a Student Care coordinator at Richland Campus, gave her insight on voting and Generation X.
“As a Gen Xer we are always concerned with economy because we have to start planning our retirement now.”
“And thinking about inflation, and also there’s always a concern of is there gonna be enough social security for us,” Blevins said .
The main things Blevins is focused on are economy, social issues, mental health and foreign policy.
“Social issues are concerning to me personally. I have teenage daughters, so I am just always thinking about different policies that might affect them as they get older,” Blevins said.
“Anywhere from environment, gender equality; both my children are girls,” she added.
Blevins also cares about the U.S. participation in different wars and interactions with other countries.
She said she very vividly remembers the Gulf War.
Growing up when it was active, she had relatives who went over to fight but came home with a lot of mental instability.
“It’s always a concern for me,” she said. “Me personally, I’m also very concerned about mental health in America and how we’re tackling mental health.”
Some general characteristics Blevins believes in are that Gen X is has a really strong work ethic, integrity and is more faith based on their beliefs regardless of which faith the Gen Xer is.
For Gen Xers like Herrera and Blevins, the election is not just about immediate concerns but about securing long-term solutions for themselves, their families and future generations.
