Debate Done

By: Steph Attias

The days leading up to the debate there was a noticeable change in the hotel atmosphere. Suddenly, there was security near our usual class meeting spot and we had to change locations. People-watching in the lobby became more interesting as Wolf Blitzer, Amy Klobuchar, Anderson Cooper, Andrew Yang, Chris Cuomo & many more notable people wandered thought the hotel doors. I had the opportunity to meet Morgan Radford, an NBC correspondent who took an hour out of her busy day to speak with our class in an incredibly open and honest way. I was so excited to attend the debate!

Being able to attend a democratic debate is something I never thought I’d be able to do. This trip has already been a whirlwind of unbelievable experiences, but this was something else entirely. The atmosphere in the room prior to the debate is infectious, bubbling over with excitement, energy and nerves. This is an experience I will never forget and will always be grateful for. Beyond being able to see presidential candidates debate live, a crazy part of the experience was the fact it was broadcasted on national television by CNN. I got text messages from friends and family letting me know they saw me on TV, which was so surreal. 

However, after the debate, the atmosphere changed once again. Iowa began to return every so slightly back to what it is when it is out of the national spotlight. While campaign events, candidates, and field offices full of staff are still in Iowa, much of the national attention has been turned away temporarily. This is due in part to the impeachment trial in Washington D.C, which forced many of the presidential candidates who are also senators to return to D.C.  The number of candidates near Des Moines has slowed down until the weekend and I’m feeling as though we are reaching the final stretch until the caucus day on February 3rd!

While I have not left the United States, I feel as thought my experience lines up with Elon’s global engagement goals. Prior the being in Iowa I barely knew anyone from the midwest. Know I having talked to countless Iowans, I feel as thought I have a much better understanding on what living in the midwest is like. Additionally, electing a presidential candidate is important to members of the United States, but in reality the whole world is watching. The results of this upcoming election will have an impact on the rest of the world.