As we approach the 2024 election, the state of the nation needs strong leadership. We face rising inflation, unsustainable national debt, and an increasingly volatile global stage where wars threaten to expand into broader conflicts. Under these circumstances, we cannot afford to stay the course. Although I am under the voting age of 18 and cannot vote in this election, if I were to choose a candidate, I would cast my vote for Donald Trump, even though I’m not fully aligned with all of his philosophies.

While I have grown up in a relatively Republican household, I don’t fit neatly into the “MAGA” mold, nor do I see Trump as the ideal conservative leader. The January 6, 2021, Capitol riot was a turning point for me, a moment that highlighted Trump’s flaws and further complicated my view of him. Still, I recognize the practical side of his leadership and policy strengths in the areas that matter most which are foreign policy, economic stability, and border security.

First, Trump’s track record on these points is very strong. Inflation was kept in check during his presidency, and his economic policies were largely beneficial to middle- and upper-class families. By extending tax cuts and deregulating industries, he was able to facilitate  job growth and economic activity, something we sorely need as costs continue to climb under Joe Biden’s administration, in which Harris is part of. Harris’s economic plans, by contrast, are built on a foundation of increased spending and “free” programs that could ultimately bankrupt the nation. Although Trump’s approach isn’t flawless, I would still choose his economic policies over the alternative.

In terms of foreign policy, we need a leader who is able to showcase strength. Under the Biden-Harris administration, America’s position on the world stage has weakened. From the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, the world feels increasingly involved in war. Trump, for all his shortcomings, is a businessman and a figure seen as tougher by both allies and adversaries, which could make a significant difference in our current global landscape. Reimposing sanctions on Iran and taking a firmer stance against the aggressive policies of Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran could foster a more stable world order. The southern border crisis is another area where Trump’s approach resonates. The reversal of Trump-era policies under Biden-Harris led to huge numbers of illegal crossings across the Mexican border and contributed to the fentanyl crisis. National security demands a well-regulated border, and Trump’s commitment to securing it is vital for the safety of American citizens.

Kamala Harris represents a more progressive, far-left version of the Democratic Party that doesn’t align with moderate or conservative ideals. Her support for increased government control over the economy and her invasive approach to critical issues is super extremist. Many Americans are struggling, with 52% saying they’re worse off than they were four years ago (Gallup). In these uncertain times, we can’t afford to stay the course.