Gen Z

Today, a conversation with Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck, about what is happening behind the scenes to prepare for this year’s presidential election. Then, we speak with author Supriya Kelkar, about her new picture book talking about Kamala Harris as a child. Lastly, the fifth episode of What the Vote?, a limited series podcast by Stateside centering on Gen Z perspectives.

Students across Michigan this year staged campus protests over Israeli attacks in Gaza. And they often butted heads with college administrators over their tactics. What the Vote? dug into what free speech means to Gen Z—and how that’s shaping campus activism right now.

Today, a Michigander, with family living in Lebanon, shares his experience watching violence unfold from afar. Then, a deeper look into how abortion access may play a part in Michiganders’ attitudes heading to the polls. And in that vein, we turn to the next episode of What The Vote. What does Gen Z have to say about the abortion debate in politics?

Today, what Michigan voters hope the next president will do to help the economy. Also, studying up on candidates for the Detroit School board.Then, hurricane storm damage throws Michigan’s supply of needed synthetic medical fluids into turmoil. And, how a tradition of community service made Black sororities and fraternities an election force to be reckoned with.

On this episode of What The Vote? reporter Aaron Bush looks at the historical and societal forces that bring Black students together in collegiate settings, and how those forces could be a motivating factor this election.

Today, we hear a conversation with Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden about her campaign to remain in her seat. Then, the Michigan chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations has requested a federal office with governance authority on universities to investigate the University of Michigan. Additionally, a destructive, invasive beetle is wiping out ash trees across the Great Lakes region. Lastly, the second episode of What the Vote?, a limited series podcast by Stateside centering on Gen Z perspectives.

Michigan's Ottawa County has historically and consistently voted for Republicans, but recent patterns suggest it's not quite as red as it used to be. That shift is thanks, in part, to young voters. But Gen Z isn't a monolith. On this episode of What the Vote?, conversations with young conservatives. We looked at how they are shaping—and being shaped by—today's Republican party.

Today, one hopeful for the Michigan Supreme Court calls for more focus on young defendants, kicking off a series of conversations with candidates for the highest bench in the state. Also, this week in Detroit, your chance to get up close and very personal with the people reporting the news. Plus, the first episode of What the Vote?, a limited series podcast by Stateside centering on Gen Z perspectives.

Young voters aren’t always politicians' first priority. But in a presidential race this tight—maybe they should be. We asked people in Gen Z what it means for them to have a seat at the political table. And we looked at how young people are using their voices, and their votes, to create political change.

What the Vote? is a new podcast from Michigan Public all about Gen Z's role in this pivotal election, as told by Gen Z reporters. From reproductive rights to free speech to the war in Gaza, we'll dig deep into the issues that matter to young people this election.