First-time voters step up, but family influence still reigns

Several first-time voters were seen casting their ballots in St Thomas Eastern on Wednesday, many encouraged by the influence of friends and family. While political awareness is growing among Jamaica’s youth, family tradition remains one of the most significant factors shaping voter decisions.

Although there is increasing talk of young people voting based on policies and national issues, many openly admitted that their choices were still strongly influenced by family affiliations.

In East Prospect, 21-year-old customer service clerk Shante hesitated before entering the polling station. She admitted that she only decided to vote after a close friend – whom she considers a mother figure – encouraged her to do so.

Shante, who voted for the People’s National Party (PNP), initially had little knowledge of the party’s promises or policies. However, she shared that she did some quick research on election morning.

“This morning I was researching about them and I read online that they have reduced crime and will be providing more justice for people. They will also be giving more people food and jobs,” she said.

Meanwhile, in Morant Bay, 22-year-old Sheree, an unemployed mother of two, appeared unsure about her vote.

When asked why she was participating in the election, she replied blankly, “Mi nuh know.”

After some probing, she eventually shared that her family told her to vote for the PNP.

When asked which party promise she was most looking forward to, she fell silent, but eventually said she hoped the government would offer support for raising her children.

In contrast, 19-year-old Hylton Williams appeared confident and informed as he arrived to vote in Port Morant alongside his mother, Suzannie Clarke. Williams proudly supported the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), expressing optimism about the country’s future.

“I am voting for a better Jamaica,” he said. “I’ve seen where the prime minister is doing his best, and I believe he’ll continue to do so if re-elected. Why would I vote out a Government that is already working, for one that I haven’t seen?”

Williams, who plans to start college soon, said he was particularly encouraged by the JLP’s proposal to reduce interest rates for Students’ Loan Bureau loans. He also praised Dr Michelle Charles, the JLP’s candidate for the constituency, and Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness for development efforts in the area.

Visible improvements

Over in Stokes Hall, voter Mario Miller admitted that his choice was based on family loyalty, but acknowledged visible improvements in the community that reinforced his decision.

Back in Morant Bay, 23-year-old Aaliah Cohen, another first-time voter and JLP supporter, spoke with enthusiasm.

“Even though I’m young, since Andrew [Holness] came into power, we’ve seen more jobs, better roads, and more opportunities,” she said.

Cohen highlighted the transformation of St Thomas – from what she described as “the forgotten parish” plagued by poor infrastructure – into a place with better roads and more educational opportunities.

She credited Charles for her work in the constituency, but noted that she needed to connect more with residents.

Asked about Charles’ chances of winning, Cohen replied, “Honestly, 50-50.”

Across the constituency, a notable number of young voters turned out, including several repeat voters. While many were reluctant to share their motivations, a recurring theme was evident – family influence played a key role, even as some showed growing interest in policy and national issues.

tanesha.mundle@gleanerjm.com