Democratic leaders hold a rally at UT Austin, encouraging students to vote

AUSTIN, Texas – Nearly 1,100 attendees joined Bernie Sanders, several Democratic leaders and state representatives at the “Our Fight, Our Future” rally. The purpose of the rally was to encourage students to register to vote.

“In the 2024 cycle, Democrats have a 10-point registration advantage, which is a 26-point change in 4 years, and the average age of a new registrant is decreasing by the day, you are it,” said former U.S. Rep. Beto O’ Rourke.

“Young people have the most to gain and the most to lose because their entire future is ahead of them, so once again I understand why Democrats want to motivate students. The question is whether they can do it effectively,” said Travis County GOP Chairman Matt Mackowiak.

Democrats say the party’s candidates on the ballot plan to fight for economic justice, combat the climate crisis, lower prescription drug costs, increase Social Security benefits and more.

“Our task is to build the movement from scratch. Whether you are black, white, gay, straight, Latino, whatever you are, let us unite to create the nation we know we can become. I came here to make sure Kamala Harris wins this state and Collin Allred is your next senator,” said U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders.

“Interest in the elections is high and we certainly have two candidates who want to lead the country in different directions,” said Mackowiak.

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Democratic leaders touched on a variety of topics, including abortion rights, raising the minimum wage and free health care.

“I want the day to come sooner or later when you and your parents can go to the doctor and not worry about the bill,” Sanders said.

“The idea that everything is free is probably attractive to students and that’s what they focus on. “We are focused on mobilizing and motivating students to run for a Democratic ticket, and the job that Republicans have is to make sure we communicate the consequences of the Biden-Harris agenda for average people,” Mackowiak said.

The group also plans to reconvene on Wednesday, October 2.