What the Democratic Wins Mean for Scholars

With the victory of Zohran Mamdani for mayor in New York City and the Democratic gains elsewhere in the country, change is in the air.

At the national level, voters appear to be reacting to cost-of-living pressures, which include student debt, housing, transportation — all things many students worry about. While electoral wins do not guarantee everything, they present a significant opportunity. Mamdani campaigned on affordability, housing, public transit, raising minimum wage, and strengthening the city’s public institutions, and his win suggests a political climate more open to easing economic burdens that many college students face. The lived experiences of students, especially those from under-resourced backgrounds, are likely to now show up on policy agendas and carry more weight. Yes, the system is imperfect. But when social mobility and equity are not just moral issues but political priorities, students who are politically engaged and advocate for themselves at their colleges and universities do help steer the ship.

One caveat for scholars: policy shifts often face resistance, competing priorities, and budget limits. Changes can come, be reversed, or take time. It’s essential to stay vigilant for emerging opportunities, recognizing that there will still be barriers to overcome. However, as a college student, you have demonstrated agency and ingenuity. Your voice matters. Your success matters.

The PowHERful Foundation remains committed to supporting you: through mentorship, financial aid awareness, community building, and helping you navigate college with confidence. So use this moment. Stay connected. Advocate for yourself. And know that this wave of change can become your launching pad.