On Tuesday, September 10th, 2024, students at SUNY Cortland came together to watch the highly anticipated 2024 presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The event, held at the Corey Union Fireplace Lounge at 9 p.m., was one of the many campus events aimed at fostering social interaction and student engagement. The lively atmosphere in the lounge reflected the students’ eagerness to hear both candidates’ stances on crucial issues like the economy, abortion rights, and immigration.
As students settled into the lounge, some grabbing snacks and chatting, others preparing for the heated political exchange, the debate began with discussions about the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. Kamala Harris made it clear that as president, she would “reinforce Roe v. Wade,” ensuring there would be no ban on abortion rights in America. In contrast, Trump, known for his divisive rhetoric, launched into a reprimand against what he referred to as the “fabric of our country being torn apart by radical policies.”
The event at the Fireplace Lounge was more than just a political watch party—it was an opportunity for SUNY Cortland students to socialize and share their thoughts on current political issues. This reflects the college’s strong commitment to creating a lively and inclusive campus environment. Our university frequently holds events like movie nights, game days, and study groups, providing spaces where students can meet new friends and bond over shared interests. The debate viewing was yet another way for students with varying political viewpoints to come together, discuss the issues that matter most to them and engage in respectful dialogue.
“This is why I love this campus,” said senior Annie Mezzatesta. “There are always events happening that make it easy to hang out with new people and discuss important topics.”
SUNY Cortland has always been recognized for promoting social gatherings among students. From sporting events to art galleries at Dowd Fine Arts Center, there’s no shortage of activities that allow students to explore their interests and build a sense of community. The 2024 presidential debate screening was another great opportunity, providing a unique blend of entertainment and education, drawing in a crowd of politically engaged students.
As the debate progressed, the candidates clashed over the economy and immigration. Harris emphasized her goal of “lifting people up and not tearing people down,” arguing that her presidency would focus on bringing people together. Meanwhile, Trump boasted about his personal fortune, claiming, “People are surprised I have billions and billions of dollars,” while simultaneously focusing on his promise to build stricter borders, saying, “We have to have borders, or we don’t have a country.”
Students were highly engaged during the debate, and many stayed afterward to discuss the candidates’ answers. The curious and friendly mood inside Corey Union demonstrated SUNY Cortland’s capacity to unite students, especially during heated political events.
With events like these, SUNY Cortland continues to uphold its reputation as a campus where students can come together to discuss, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, regardless of their political affiliations. The debate watch party was yet another example of how the university creates spaces where students feel connected, heard, and part of something bigger.