Professor Brenda Bushouse, Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Policy at UMass Amherst, was quoted in Western Mass News as saying, “In 2008 when Barack Obama was elected, I saw a huge shift in my undergraduate students. They were alert, they were aware, asking questions and getting involved in a new way, so I saw it start there and it’s only increased.” Two UMass Amherst students were also quoted about their excitement over voting in the upcoming election. Sophomore Marie Maher said, “I’m really excited to be able to voice my opinion, considering I haven’t been able to for the last 18 years,” and added that college has been a great place to learn about politics. Sophomore Linnea Kelley said, “We’re very lucky that we’re able to [vote] so this is important for all of us to take this opportunity to vote.” (Western Mass News, 10/27/20)