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The Wash
Zaid Mastou, The Wash

Economic concerns and social values shape Fairfax county’s 2024 election

With over a million residents and a traditionally high voter turnout, the county is critical in deciding the state’s 13 electoral votes.

Originally a Republican stronghold, Fairfax began to shift in the early 2000s as its population grew more diverse and younger families moved in.

From student loan debt and health care to economic stability, these issues drive voters to make their voices heard in what many see as a defining election.

For some voters, economic issues top the list. “For me, it’s the economy,” said Nelson Ulloa, one Fairfax resident. “Things that affect you daily, such as the economy and values, are important to me. The U.S. was built on certain principles.”

This perspective is common among voters who prioritize job stability, inflation control, and economic resilience, significantly as prices fluctuate and uncertainty looms over the future.

There’s a strong sense among Trump supporters that he’s the candidate to bring economic stability.

 “I believe Trump will bring back the strong economy we had before,” said Lisa Thompson, a Fairfax resident and small business owner.

“He understands how businesses work and wants to cut the red tape strangling small companies. That’s something we need more than ever right now.”

Lisa’s perspective resonates with many conservatives in Fairfax who feel that Trump’s policies offer the best path to economic growth and stability.

Toora Arsala, wearing a “Keep Virginia Blue” T-shirt, told The Wash, “I’m all in for Kamala Harris.” Toora believes that Kamala is the best choice for the country.

Arsala wanted “student loans and health care” when he voted. “I think once Kamala gets elected, we will have a better health care system, and we’ll have abortion rights will be better for all women everywhere in the entire country.”

More in this report

Zaid Mastou

Zaid is an MA student in investigative journalism at the American University, a dynamic and accomplished Editor-in-Chief and Executive Producer with a strong journalism and media development background. Demonstrated expertise in conceptualization, implementation, and production across various media platforms. Seasoned trainer with a track record of successfully training over 400 journalists in journalistic standards, news writing, investigative journalism, and fact-checking.

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