Honolulu Star-Bulletin Local News
We turned on our tape recorder and asked first-time voters to talk about the issues and political process; look for it every Tuesday during election season.
Name: Teya Forrette
Age: 18
Home: Monmouth, Ore.
Background: Freshman at Chaminade University, psychology major who is voting by absentee ballot in Oregon.
Election
The majority of my friends aren't going to vote. They don't see either (presidential) candidate as making a difference. I think if they saw better options, they'd take the opportunity."
Issues
The biggest problem for politicians at all levels of government to address and really try to solve is drugs. They don't see that kids are getting into drugs younger and younger. Somehow, they have to make it worthwhile for kids to stay away from drugs, to wipe out the market for traffickers. It's an education matter, I guess. All I remember hearing about drugs from the school was a two-day session in a health class.
Other issues?
Things that affect you personally are important, like the (recent federal legislation increasing the) minimum wage. I'm always working, so that interested me ... and whatever government chooses to spend money on, like if it cuts back in education when just about every student has some type of government loan.
When Congress cut welfare, I think that is really creating a problem. I have friends that it affects. Government should focus on getting people jobs so they have a choice. Once you get on welfare, you're dependent.
Presidential election
I'm not very eager to vote for either (candidate). I think we need a change in the country. I don't think Clinton has made changes. Clinton has talked a lot but never delivered, for example in the fight against drugs.
I'm more of a Republican than a Democrat because I think they are more traditional, stable. Democrats have loosened things up.
Abortion
It's a choice I wouldn't make, but I think everyone should have the right to choose.
Education
The biggest problem in schools is the whole drug problem. I was fortunate to come from a small town, a small school, but even then, there was a drug problem. There were a lot of fights, a lot of racial tension (between Caucasians and Hispanics in her hometown).
Message
It doesn't matter who you are with your friends, (but) choose what you know is right when you vote.
Political campaigns
You should run on your own merits, on how you will benefit the community, not on how your opponent will screw up. Back home, there are commercials that were painful to watch, bashing a candidate. That doesn't get my vote.
People are a lot more sophisticated ... not to believe that there is a perfect solution for the whole nation.
Activism
Back in high school, I was involved in debate. Issues of the town were discussed. My boyfriend is into politics here.
My mother is sending me material about the candidates. It's not so much different to be this far away and not know much about them, or to be here and vote on the basis of television commercials.
I'm going to do my best to know what I can before I vote.
First Vote Archives