Walls Students Express Optimism After November Election Results

The morning after the November election results came in, many students expressed genuine satisfaction with the results, which delivered several key victories for Democratic candidates such as Zohran Mamdani, Abigail Spanberger, and Mikkie Sherrill. Along with the redistricting of California for the benefit of the Democratic Party, the outcome felt like a turning point. 

This year’s elections brought notable wins for the Democratic Party. Several closely contested congressional races broke blue, governors in key states held their ground, and local ballot measures supporting issues like reproductive rights and education funding passed decisively. Analysts have already begun referring to the results as a course correction, suggesting that voters, specifically young voters, are seeking a response to the Trump Administration's divisive policies. 

Across the student body, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Many students viewed the results as a validation of the issues they care about. Penelope Hoppes (‘28) said, “ I think this is good. It's going to help stop the momentum of the Trump administration, so I’m pleased.” Her viewpoint was echoed by others, including Olivia Liebert (‘28), who was “very happy.” 

For Democrats, this election means more than just wins; it means they are regaining momentum and traction not only in Congress but in the general public as well. Strong support from young voters helped shape the results and may influence how the party approaches 2026 and 2028. Furthermore, the voter turnout was very promising. Nara Haruntyan (‘27) commented that, “It shows we can take back the majority in the House and in the Senate.” 

One standout candidate was Zohran Mamdani, whom many students supported. Haruntyan expressed that “I think it's just great that we got somebody who wants to help the people out and say there's a lot of things we could do to improve the lives of the majority while taxing the rich.” Her sentiments were supported by others, including Hoppes, who said that “It’s nice to see progressives win because it means candidates with more progressive viewpoints have a chance.” 

Democrats need to retain momentum, and these candidates have given a blueprint on how to do it. The election is only a precursor for what is to come, but it seems like if midterms go the same way these recent elections have, then Walls students will be very pleased.