By: Julianna Clipson
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — People across the nation watched as one of the longest standing red states in the United States could possibly turn blue. Texas has not had a Democrat senator in nearly thirty years. With thousands of students at the University of Arkansas with home addresses in the Lone Star State, this election hits close to home. Republican incumbent Ted Cruz faces off against Democratic candidate Beto O’Rourke in a close race till the end on Tuesday.
“It’s nerve-wracking, but it’s exciting to see what’s going and it’s good to see so many people in my generation getting excited for politics,” Sydney Morris, a Republican student from Texas, said.
Morris believes this race has gained attention from more of the younger generation because of social media campaigns. Even though she did not have a “I voted” sticker on during election day, she said she participated in the midterm here in Fayetteville by mailing in her absentee ballot last week.
One University of Arkansas student said even though she is from Kansas City, the race in this conservative state is very important to her.
“I don’t know if he will be able to pull it out, a lot of people think he probably won’t, but it is still getting a lot of attention,” Democrat Sophie Tomasic said.
Tomasic believes this election is crucial for Democrats across the country.
UATV’s political analyst also believes that no matter where you are from this race is an important one to keep an eye on.
“That a democrat has been competitive not just a republican in Texas but a high-profile republican on the national scene is something I think has garnered a lot of attention and a lot more interest than you typically seen in non presidential years.” Janine Parry said.
Parry is a professor of political science at the university and said she is not surprised this midterm is cause close races in certain states.
The main issues brought up between the two candidates are immigration, health care, and gun control. Both candidates have taken respective sides according to their party stances.
“I hope that everyone voting actually takes the time to research into the facts and figures of both candidates and not just voting based off of what they see social media,” Morris said.
Voter turnout in Texas and across the nation has been elevated compared to 2014, but Morris said she hopes people make informed decisions.
One student said she believes the spike in voters has to do with people deciding to speak up.
“It’s hard to have your voice in anything if you don’t vote,” said Tomasic.