UM students react to the 2024 election results
A&E // Page 8
Election Day silence speaks volumes about campus political climate
Opinion // Page 6
TRUMP TAKES MIAMI
Miami-Dade votes red for the first time in 36 years, paving Trump’s path to national victory
The elephant in the room: The Hispanic vote turns Republican News // Page 2
News // Page 4
Miami-Dade’s red wave
Florida voters ride with Trump to victory
By Mel Tenkoff & Jaslyn Troung Assistant News Editors
A red wave swept through MiamiDade County on Election Day, with President-elect Donald J. Trump not only clinching the county’s first Republican presidential win since George H.W. Bush 36 years ago, but also improving his margins across almost every city in MiamiDade with 55% of the entire vote.
Despite Florida’s Democrats’ reliance on Miami-Dade to remain its historic blue, as it did for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and for Joe Biden in 2020, multiple cities throughout the county including Aventura, Homestead, Key Biscayne, Palmetto Bay and Pinecrest went from siding with the Democratic candidate in past years to Trump in 2024.
Of these cities, Coral Gables — home to the University of Miami — also saw a shift in voter preference.
“Biden got 53% of the vote in 2020 to Trump’s 47%. On Tuesday, Trump emerged the narrow [Coral] Gables winner, taking 50% of the ballots, compared to 49% for [Kamala] Harris,” ac-
cording to The Miami Herald.
“A big part of [Trump’s win] has to be the Cuban community in Miami and the desire to not revert back into ways of socialism, which have been associated with the Democratic party,” said Osei Allen, a junior at UM studying political science and psychology. “A lot of Trump’s appeal has definitely been straying towards the right side of things, which is not necessarily the belief of a lot of Cubans, but more so going away from anything left-leaning or socialist.”
The Miami Hurricane spoke to voters at Versailles on Election night and found that many shared the same sentiment as Allen.
Jeremiah Andrew Carrillo, a 28-year-old Trump voter, said, “United States citizens are tired of being afraid and tied down with their pocketbooks, and not being able to express freedoms they were able to since the founding of this country.”
Many voters pointed to the BidenHarris Administration’s policies, like increased government spending, progressive healthcare reforms and climate change regulations as key factors driving them to vote for Trump.
Others, like Joseph Higgins, a first-time voter in Miami-Dade County, attributed their support for Trump to Harris’ handling of key foreign and domestic issues during her time in office.
“The three main objectives that Kamala was in charge of were the borders, the Ukraine war and the US pullout in the Middle East,” Higgins said. “What Trump wanted to do in the Middle East was to slowly pull out the troops, but what she did was pull out the troops immediately, which was not smart.”
This right-leaning shift throughout the county is reflected not only in the presidential vote but also in the failure of progressive measures across the state
How Florida voted on the six proposed amendments
like Amendments 3 and 4, which aimed to legalize the use of recreational marijuana and to allow abortion until viability.
However, leading up to this election, many voters did not know what result to expect for either these measures or a Harris or Trump victory.
Sebastian Gonzalez, a sophomore majoring in political science and public relations said that “it’s hard to accurately depict what is going to happen on election night and there could always be a margin of error,” regarding the projection of which candidate would win in the swing states and Miami-Dade.
Former President Barack Obama was the last Democrat to win Florida as a whole in 2008 and 2012, but since then, what Allen refers to as the “domination of the Trump campaign,” has made the state increasingly red and out of reach for Democrats.
“At the end of the day, a big part of this has to do with how well certain candidates align at the time. Considering the circumstances — for example, having Kamala represent the Democratic party — kind of resulted in not the strongest of support,” Allen said. “I don’t necessarily think it’s going to be a major trend towards red for the next eight to twelve years, I think it’s just due to the circumstances.”
Others have expressed that Trump’s appeal is because of people realizing that the Democrats need to change their strategy.
“I think [Trump’s win] is a mixture of his hold on the Republican party and the need for the Democratic party to change its leadership within the party,” Gonzalez said.
With the results of the presidential election, the Democrats may need to realign their strategy and message to their demographics to be successful in the future.
“[Democrats] have to be a lot more direct in terms of what demographics of voters make or break their success, particularly in the swing states,” Allen said. “Republicans have done a really solid job of appealing to those less represented groups.”
By Rhea Shivnani Contributing Writer
Florida voters decided on six proposed amendments to the Florida Constitution in the 2024 election, addressing issues ranging from reproductive rights and marijuana legalization to tax exemptions and public financing. With over 900,000 signatures backing each proposal, these amendments needed 60% of the vote to pass.
Amendment 1: Partisan Election of School Board Members
Despite 55% approval, Amendment 1 did not meet the required 60% threshold. This amendment would have required political party declaration for school board candidates and allow voting on election for school board candidates to solely party-affiliated individuals. With this result, school board elections in Florida will remain non-partisan and registered voters will continue to have access to these elections regardless of their party affiliation.
Amendment 2: Right to Fish and Hunt
Amendment 2 passed with 67% support, legalizing the right for Floridian citizens to fish and hunt and classifying these activities as a means of wildlife management. This constitutional protection upholds the right to fish and hunt while preserving the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s authority to regulate and ensure sustainable wildlife management.
Amendment 3: Marijuana Legalization Initiative
Amendment 3, which sought to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults at least 21 years old, received approximately 56% support, falling four percentage points short of the required 60% approval. If it had passed, Floridians would have been allowed to possess up to three ounces of marijuana and to purchase it from licensed dispensaries. As a result of the amendment’s narrow defeat, Florida’s existing marijuana laws, allowing only medicinal marijuana usage, will remain unchanged.
Amendment 4: Limiting Government Interference with Abortion
Falling short of the threshold by 3%, Amendment 4 did not pass. Amendment 4, which sought to limit government interference with abortion up to the point of fetal viability, received 57% support, remaining below the required 60% approval. This means that Florida’s current abortion restrictions, including the six-week ban enacted in May 2024, remain in effect.
Amendment 5: Annual Adjustments to Homestead Exemptions
Amendment 5 was approved with 66% of the vote. This amendment makes adjustments to homestead exemptions for properties valued between $50,000 and $75,000. This means homeowners with properties within that value range are eligible for additional tax exemptions, potentially lowering their property tax bill. Now tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), these exemptions will be adjusted annually based on inflation rates, potentially increasing tax savings for homeowners as property values rise.
Amendment 6: Repeal of Public Campaign Financing Requirement
Amendment 6 did not pass, with only 50% of votes supporting it. This means that candidates running for certain statewide offices will continue to be eligible for public funds for their campaigns made available by taxpayers.
Ashley Puritz // Graphics Editor
Senator Rick Scott secures victory over Debbie Mucarsel-Powell
By Seyda Pevey Contributing Writer
Sen. Rick Scott secured a second term in the now-Republican-majority U.S. Senate while apprehension now fills supporters of his challenger, former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell.
For many, this election between Scott and Mucarsel-Powell for Senate represented more than a contest between two candidates — it was a debate over core values and the direction of the state on issues like reproductive rights, immigration and economic stability.
Scott’s supporters view his firm stance on conservative policies such as abortion and the border wall as essential to protecting the state’s future, according to his campaign website. However, Mucarsel-Powell’s website advocates for progressive change focused on healthcare, reproductive rights, environment and social equality.
Following the announcement of the results, Mucarsel-Powell addressed her supporters at the watch party her campaign hosted at the JW Marriot.
“I am so, so fortunate and privileged to have had this incredible opportunity to be the nominee representing the Democratic party here in the state of Florida, to give Florida a new view on what we could do together,” Mucarsel-Powell said. “And there were millions of Floridians who came out today to say no más, millions of Floridians that wanted change for the state of Florida, but today we were not successful.”
After his win, confirmed late on Nov. 5, Scott was projected by Decision Desk HQ and The Hill to have vote shares of 55.6% versus 42.8% for Mucarsel-Powell and chances to win at 72.7% compared to 27.3%.
Sen. Rick Scott
From his watch party in Naples, the former Florida governor emphasized the political activism of his
supporters.
“There’s a lot of people to thank; there’s a lot of people who knocked on doors, made phone calls, did texts. We had a lot of people just busting their butts,” Scott said.
Following his term as governor from 2011 to 2019, Scott has served in the U.S. Senate for 6 years after defeating Bill Nelson in the 2018 election.
According to his campaign website, Sen. Scott’s Rescue America Plan has 12 points detailing his values of protecting Americans from “the militant left” who are “redefining America and silencing their opponents.”
Since being elected to the U.S. Senate, Scott says he is “fighting to stop the reckless government spending and the devastating inflation it has caused in Florida… combat the extreme danger posed by Communist China … [and] secure our border and stop the flow of drugs, terrorism and -illegal immigration into our country.”
Prior to engaging in politics, Scott was CEO of the world’s largest healthcare company, now known as HCA Healthcare. It was shortly after his leave in 1997 that the hospital company was fined $1.7 billion for Medicare fraud, prompting the U.S. Department of State to call it the largest government fraud settlement in U.S. history.
The Miami Herald reported that Scott said he would have immediately stopped his company from committing fraud — if only “somebody told me something was wrong.”
But there were such warnings in the company’s annual public reports to stockholders — which Scott had to sign as president and CEO.
James Biasoni, a senior majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering, shared his thoughts.
“I voted for Rick Scott because I have personally met him, and liked my interaction with him, and the speech he gave before that felt very personable,” Biasoni said.“I heard that he is very against abortions and has defunded planned parenthood in our state multiple times. I am also
pretty sure he is a part of the reason marijuana hasn’t been able to be legalized in so long.”
Sophia Plan, a senior pursuing a degree in ecosystem science, geography and sustainable development, shared her contrasting thoughts.
“I f——g hate Rick Scott. He’s a slime and has put Florida back politically for so long,” Plan said.
Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell
Mucarsel-Powell ran against Sen. Scott because “democracy, our economy, and our rights are all on the line — and Senator Rick Scott has failed Floridians.”
Trading violence and uncertainty in Ecuador for a brighter future in the U.S., Mucarsel-Powell helped support her family and went on to expand affordable healthcare during her time in Congress.
Accepting her loss at her watch party, Mucarsel-Powell offered words of reassurance to her supporters.
“We will take our state to the right track, we are not going to give in, we are not going to give up. I will continue to keep my eye on the prize, and I want all of you to do the same,” Mucarsel-Powell said.
According to her website, Mucarsel-Powell has highlighted her interests of reducing inflation, protecting Social Security and Medicare, lowering health care costs and protecting women’s rights to healthcare and abortion during her campaign.
Atha Stephenopoulos, a senior majoring in political science and international relations, described how significant a win for MucarselPowell could have been.
“She’s good, very important for women’s rights. Florida has been backsliding into conservative and anti-environmental policy when now more than ever it needs someone progressive and pro environment,” Stephenopoulos said. “If Florida wants to be a rival and Wall Street of the south, it needs policies that make it attractive to a liberal and highly educated workforce — laws around protecting women’s rights, the environment.”
Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA
<https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons U.S. Senator Rick Scott speaks with attendees at The People’s Convention at Huntington Place in Detroit, MI on June 14, 2024.
Rick Scott
5,976,605 55.6%
4,600,983
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer Former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell speaks to the press after her loss to Sen. Rick Scott on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
Data sourced from the Associated Press
Marra
The elephant in the room: Hispanic votes turn Republican
The 2024 election saw a shift in Hispanic voting patterns, with increasing support for Donald Trump reflecting significant political drifts towards the Republican party within minority communities across the U.S.
This unexpected increase in commitment from Hispanic voters contributed to Trump’s victory, despite his previous rhetoric condemning immigrants for “poisoning the blood of our country.”
Key support from the Cuban, Puerto Rican and South American population in the swing states helped Trump to boost his share of the Hispanic vote nationwide, increasing it from 32% in 2020 to 45% in 2024, according to the Miami Herald.
The results of this presidential election reflected this trend, with MiamiDade County flipping red for the first time since 1988 along with Trump projected to win every swing state. The GOP also secured a Senate majority and maintained control of the House.
Trump was able to secure the minority vote, which led him to his victory.
In Florida, the Hispanic population of approximately 5.7 million is predominantly made up of Cubans (28%), Puerto Ricans (21%), South Americans (18%) and Mexicans (14%), based on research performed by the University of California, Los Angeles.
Within this diverse demographic, votes do vary between being for conservative and liberal candidates. However, Republican support among Hispanic voters has increased by 10 points since 2018, continuing an over decade-long trend of the nation’s largest ethnic minority moving in a conservative political direction, according to NBC News.
Isabella Boyer, a Cuban-American senior at the University of Miami, shared a similar view.
“The Republican Party works to provide the American dream while the Democrats have sunk all hope of living the American dream via their economic policies and open border policies,” Boyer said.
“Many of Kamala’s plans align with those of a communist. Cuban Americans recognize this pattern and vote Republican.”
However, not all Hispanic individuals align with these values. Historically, Puerto Rican voters on the mainland have
leaned Democratic, with approximately 68% of Florida’s Puerto Rican population supporting President Biden in the 2020 election, according to Axios Miami.
“I say I’m actually more moderate-left leaning, and so is my immediate family,” said Sofia Mateo, a Puerto Rican junior at the University of Miami. “My parents grew up in Connecticut, and my family is Puerto Rican. Their life experiences with their local government and peers definitely shaped why they’re more left-leaning.”
Although polls predicted that Trump would lose thousands of Hispanic voters after comedian Tony Hinchcliffe said that Puerto Rico is a “floating island of garbage” at Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, he received 45% of the Latino vote nationwide.
“I would say that I am moderate because of the values taught by my family, but as I get older, the life experiences I have definitely have shaped what I believe now. Before, during high school years, I was more Democratic, but now, going through college, I would say I’m more moderate,” Mateo said.
At the University of Miami, the student body is comprised of 24% Hispanic students.
Given this demographic, Presidentelect Trump’s strict border and immigration policies have sparked significant controversy both at the University and within Miami-Dade County since his candidacy and recent victory.
According to NBC News, the former Immigration and Customs Enforcement director during the Trump Administration, Thomas Homan, said that he would “run the biggest deportation force this country has ever seen” when Trump returns to office in 2025.
Eddie Hernandez, a Cuban-American University of Miami student, shared his beliefs on this matter.
“I believe immigrants coming should be documented, but [Trump’s policies] are a little extreme and I don’t see a way they could be humane,” he said, in regards to Trump’s immigration policy being excessive and focusing more on enforcement rather than creating pathways for immigrants to enter legally.
“Every single developed country requires some sort of documentation in order to go there. For example, students going abroad need a student visa,” Hernandez said. “I just believe the border should be tighter, but it’s not inhumane
for people to come in the right way.”
For many Hispanic students at the University of Miami, their families endured great challenges to immigrate to the U.S. from communist regimes like Cuba.
Boyer proudly shared her family’s history, which is a large factor in why she identifies as a conservative. Her grandparents, who are originally from Cuba, fled to the United States in the hopes of escaping the communist regime under Fidel Castro.
“My family came from Cuba many years ago to escape communism and live the American dream. My family is proud to be Cuban American and did it the right way to become citizens of the United States and live the American dream.”
Boyer’s views and experiences align with others of similar descent, including Rep. Carlos Curbelo, who served as the U.S. representative for Florida’s 26th congressional district from 2015 to 2019.
According to the Washington Examiner, Curbelo said that “Trump ‘goes out of his way to celebrate the country in a way a lot of Hispanics can relate to,” while “Democrats consider fundamental injustices and structural abuses in American society.”
Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer
A man wearing a mask of Donald Trump’s face waves a flag saying “Trump 2020” while standing in front of the Cuban flag on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
By Sophia Ibanez & Mel Tenkoff Cont. Writer & Asst. News Editor
Rejecting the ‘canna-monopoly’ Local smoke shops react to Amendment 3 loss
By Luke Chaney Co-Sports Editor
Voters rejected Florida’s Amendment 3, which sought to legalize the recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 and older on Tuesday, Nov. 5. The amendment was expected to generate at least $195.6 million for the state, creating new opportunities for businesses, but some smoke shop owners believed the expanding market would threaten their business instead of benefiting it.
If passed, the amendment would allow existing medical marijuana dispensaries to sell cannabis recreationally, as well as create opportunities for statelicensed entities “to acquire, cultivate, process, manufacture, sell and distribute such products and accessories,” according to the Florida Department of State. These already-established medical marijuana businesses were well-positioned if the sale of recreational cannabis was legalized, given the tedious licensing process.
This was the main reason why Justin, a store associate for Lifted Smoke Shop,
opposed Amendment 3.
“If it were to pass, only the same people that have the license are able to sell marijuana,” he said. “So these people can just jack up the price however much they want because, to even get that card, it’s basically almost impossible.”
To sell medical marijuana in Florida, a company must first obtain a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center license. Candidates for this MMTC license must be registered to conduct business in Florida for at least five consecutive years and pay a nonrefundable application fee of $146,000, an increase from the previous fee of $60,830.
Approved applicants are required to renew their license once every two years for a fee of $1,223,124, should this renewal fall between Jan. 1, 2023 and Dec. 31, 2024.
There are 25 MMTC operators in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use. This includes Trulieve, a marijuana company that owns around a quarter of the over 600 medical marijuana stores statewide and contributed nearly 95% of the $152 million received by Smart & Safe Florida, the commit-
tee that spearheaded the effort to pass Amendment 3.
Justin, who did not disclose his last name, worries that the adoption of Amendment 3 would have resulted in the “cannamonopoly” of the marijuana industry. He believes that the amendment’s advocates are not fully aware of the consequences that could come with its approval.
“They don’t understand how it would really work,” he said. “They don’t understand that if this were to pass, weed [cost] would be up the roof. It would be up the roof for practices… And then taxes on it, it would just be insane.”
Many of Justin’s concerns were reflected in a series of television advertisements promoted by Gov. Ron DeSantis and his wife Casey DeSantis, in the months leading up to the election. The couple also traveled throughout the state, highlighting the dangers of marijuana and arguing that the amendment’s language would lead to a monopoly.
“This amendment is written to benefit this one big weed company. It’s not meant to benefit you,” DeSantis said during an event in Cape Coral, Fla. on Oct. 24.
Eric, a store associate for Canna Ocho
- Delta-8 THC & CBD Dispensary, Vape & Smoke Shop, was disappointed that the recreational use of marijuana was not legalized but agreed with Justin that the amendment passing could have harmed smoke shops.
“It’s better because we wouldn’t have to get a license,” said Eric, who also did not share his last name. “We would have to go through a whole process to do that, and it’s going to cost a lot of money, and then I don’t know [about] the competition. It’s a higher grade scale.”
Supporters of Amendment 3, including Ark South Miami Smoke Shop store associate Ruby Ave, argue that the legalization of pot prevents people from purchasing unregulated forms of the
substance that could be laced with dangerous compounds, like fentanyl.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 74,702 people died from fentanyl overdose in 2023, but there have been no confirmed deaths linked to fentanyl-laced cannabis.
“I think it’s important just because, the kids, if they don’t get it legally, they’re going to get it illegally on the street, and fentanyl is a big thing nowadays,” Ave said. “You don’t know if something is laced.”
For now, marijuana will continue to be available for those with a Medical Marijuana Use Registry card. There are no further plans to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida at this time.
Amendment 4 receives 6 million votes, fails to pass in Florida
By Martina Pantaleon Contributing Writer
Amendment 4 to the Florida Constitution, the Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion, did not reach the 60% voting threshold during the 2024 election.
Abortion was one of the two citizen-sponsored initiatives in this year’s ballot. With over 900,000 signed petitions, this amendment earned a spot on the ballot with four other measures added by Florida’s State Legislature.
On Election Day, Amendment 4 fell three percentage points short of the 60% needed to pass. Out of over 10 million voters, more than six million cast a ballot in favor of limiting the government’s interference in abortions. Yet that only made up 57.2% of votes.
Supporters of the Amendment blame the bill’s failure on the supermajority needed to pass.
“It’s a weird feeling to win by 15% and still lose,” said Pinecrest Councilmember, Anna Hochkammer, executive director of Florida Women’s Freedom Coalition, to the Miami Herald.
As the election approached, discussions surrounding Amendment 4 were widespread, with television stations featuring advertisements both opposing and supporting Amendment 4.
“The only way to end the current ban, which has no real exceptions for rape, incest, or health of the woman, is for Floridians to vote yes on Amendment 4,” their website said underneath the video.
Rallies were held across Florida, with abortion-rights advocates frequently taking to the streets to mobilize voters. Opponents of the amendment
matched their efforts, including a rally organized by Ave Maria University, a Catholic institution in Ave Maria, Florida, just two weeks before the election.
“This event raises awareness of the harm Amendment 4 will cause to the unborn and their mothers — allowing for late-term abortions, eliminating parental consent laws, and worsening the health care provided to women in crisis,” Father Joseph Lugalambi, Ave Maria University’s campus chaplain told CNA.
Shortly after the election, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis published, “With polls now closed in Florida — Amendment 3 has failed. Amendment 4 has failed,” on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Fox called DeSantis’ tweet a victory lap. Florida’s Governor had openly opposed Amendment 4 several times before the elections. On Oct. 22 he held
a press conference alongside medical professionals to “outline the dangers of Amendment 4.”
“You have no definitions in these amendments, you have no doctors required to be involved in this amendment, and you have really, really extreme policies such as the lack of meaningful limits,” said DeSantis during the conference in Coral Gables.
“That is not something that belongs in any state constitution, much less the State of Florida.”
While many focused on the results of the presidential election, Floridians Protecting Freedom hosted a “Yes on 4” watch party at St. Pittsburg.
“The reality is, because of Florida’s constitution, a minority, a minority, a minority of Florida voters have decided that Amendment 4 will not be adopted,” Lauren Brenzel, Campaign
Director of “Yes on 4” said to supporters after the results were published.
After the results were announced, UMiamiDems published a statement on their Instagram.
“We are extremely disheartened to hear about the loss of democratic federal, state, and local offices last night, along with the failure of Amendments 3 & 4 in the state of Florida.”
But those were not the only voices announcing their disappointment.
Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, who appeared on the ticket as the Democratic Senate Candidate, spoke up on the results to her supporters at her watch party at the JW Marriott in Miami.
“We were not successful in sending a woman, a mom, who would be fighting every single day for our daughters and women in the state of Florida, to protect their reproductive freedom.”
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer Smoke Hut, a local smoke shop in Miami, FL, captured on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
Crickets on campus: UM’s eerie silence around Election Day
By Madeline Darby Staf Writer
The day after the election, my public relations professor walked in front of the class and proceeded to warily ask, “Do we want to talk about politics?” He was met with crickets. In a lecture hall of about 100 students, no one spoke.
In such a polarized, politically charged time, political discourse on campus is noticeably lacking, especially compared to other large universities. A few weeks before the election, a Trump rally at Penn State University reached such high attendance that it had to be shut down before he could take the stage. On the other hand, the frst signs of political discussion I saw at UM happened the day before the election.
It may seem like students at UM don’t care about politics, but that’s not necessarily the case.
The quiet on our campus doesn’t refect a lack of care around the election, it refects a fear to voice one’s opinions. The political polarization that divides our country fuels a harmful cycle that is apparent on our campus: many refuse to consider or listen to opposing viewpoints, which in turn makes oth ers
reluctant to voice their opinions, choosing silence to avoid confict.
“I’ve observed that our campus is pretty quiet about a lot of political topics even in my business classes.” Said sophomore economics major Olivia Pretto. “It is more of a thing that is joked about rather than talked about in a serious manner.”
Teachers have commonly adopted the phrase, “I try to keep politics out of my classroom,” or use similar lines to avoid any related topics. If our own teachers, our role models and leaders on campus discourage debate, why would students actively seek it outside the classroom? It seems as if the discussion has become one that is socially unacceptable.
It doesn’t help that the University didn’t allow any offcial watch parties on campus. The Rat closed early on election day, discontinuing its tradition of election watch parties. By doing so, UM suppressed opportunities for open discussion, discouraging students from discussing politics on campus. Even POL 401, the Election Class, was forced to cancel its election night party, despite a semester of engaging students in political conversations.
“I don’t think it’s the university’s right to not allow students to come together to watch the election, especially for a politi-
cal science class,” said Ella Lundgren, a freshman studying political science. “I think the university is trying to minimize contention within the two political parties and the student body.”
A university is a space where learning, collaboration, and debate are at the heart of knowledge and growth. Discouraging discussion hinders the learning experience for many by preventing students from gaining insights from others and from learning how to interact with those they disagree with — a valuable life skill.
Discouraging debate in times of elections only deepens the divide in our country. It’s time we learn, especially as college students beginning to vote, how to engage in respectful discussions, rather than reverting to methods of self-censorship and avoidance.
According to a Pew Research study in 2021, 59% of Americans say having conversations with people they disagree with is “stressful and frustrating,” and the Cato Institute says 62% of Americans have “political views they are afraid to share.”
Amercans often won’t even date people who support the other political party. A series of studies have shown that less than 10% of all marriages and romantic couples in the U.S. are politically “mixed.”
In 2020, the Hill also found only 21% of marriages involve spouses from different parties. That was down by almost a third since 2016.
Given the hostile language surrounding this election, students often fear expressing their opinions, knowing they could be met with either agreement or aggression.
Inside Higher Ed reports one-third of students are scared to share their political opinions on campus for fear of negative repercussions like losing friends or damaging their reputation. For some students, discussing politics is like walking on eggshells.
There’s no denying that this election carried signifcant weight with social
justice issues at the forefront of debate, making it personal for many. However, as adults, we should be able to listen and respect our peers because close-mindedness is just as harmful as silence.
This silence we saw on campus before and after the election poses an important question: How do we start the conversation again?
It starts with respect and understanding that no one is going to agree with you 100% of the time. We must work to make campus a safe space for conversations where we can learn to navigate our differences, not just for elections, but for life.
Amendment Four failed, but your voice still matters
By Katie Karlson Co-Opinion Editor
In an unfortunate turn of events, Florida’s Amendment 4, a proposal to expand abortion rights, did not pass. This incredibly disappointing result can lead to great risks for women.
A law passed by Florida’s Republicancontrolled legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis prohibits the majority of abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, and a separate provision requires parents to be notifed of a minor receiving an
abortion. Amendment 4 proposed adjusting Florida’s constitution to protect the right to an abortion up to viability, which is set at 24 weeks of fetal development. The Florida government would also not be able to interfere if a woman and her medical providers decided an abortion was medically necessary after the 24-week mark.
For Amendment 4 to pass, 60% of voters needed to vote “yes,” but the amendment fell just short of the mark. Out of the ten states that had amendments on the ballot proposing expanded abortion rights, seven states passed them. Florida, South Dakota and Nebraska were the outliers.
Passing Amendment 4 would have been the smart choice for women’s health and safety, and this decision not to decrease government interference in abortions can hold larger implications for privacy laws.
The 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade established that the U.S. Constitution protects an individual’s right to privacy, including an abortion. This ruling
is in line with the Fourteenth Amendment’s declared right of liberty. When Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, the decision on abortion rights was given back to the states.
The Florida constitution’s section 23 also clearly outlines a right to privacy, but the Florida Supreme Court did not interpret this to include the right to abortion, so the six-week restriction was implemented.
Now more than ever, your vote for Florida’s governor and Supreme Court judges matters. Their interpretation of privacy can dictate your rights to your body.
The six-week abortion ban that now remains in place does not allow time for most women to realize they are pregnant and make an informed decision about their options. According to the American Pregnancy Association, most women realize they are pregnant between weeks four and seven, which means many women don’t know in time or have very little time to make an informed decision.
Making matters worse, a major is-
sue with this timeframe is that pregnancy is actually calculated from the date of a woman’s last period. It is not uncommon to have a few days difference in each month’s menstrual cycle. So, a woman can think her period is just a little late and not realize she is pregnant until just before or after the six-week deadline.
For women who discover they are pregnant after six weeks, they have virtually no options in Florida, and even women who learn of their pregnancies before the six-week mark are placed in a diffcult position. Particularly in cases of unintended pregnancies, those women would only have one-two weeks to decide if they want to proceed with the pregnancy or get an abortion. This is not nearly enough time to make such a complex decision, never mind needing to take time off work, schedule the procedure and other logistics.
Read the full article online at themiamihurricane.com.
Sovannreach Po Staf Designer
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer
Demonstrator advocates for Florida Amendment 4 while wearing a costume from The Handmaid’s Tale at the Coral Gables Public Library on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024.
America needs real leadership, which neither candidate delivered
By Ethan Mannello Co-Opinion Editor
If the 2024 election showed Americans anything, it is that this country needs a real leader. The United States needs a president who will not only calm the toxic discourse and unite us as a country, but who will implement effective and effcient policies.
According to Pew Research, only 53% of Americans believe the “American dream” is still possible, and Gallup says that Americans are more depressed than ever measured.
Food prices have risen 28% in fve years, according to Nerd Wallet. Pew also reports that income inequality in the United States continues to grow, and a Bankrate Survey reported only a quarter of Americans feel completely fnancially secure.
Abroad, the U.S. is involved in two massive proxy wars, sending aid and weapons to both Ukraine and Israel. Those conflicts could both spill over into broader wars throughout Europe, the Middle East and even the world. China continues to increase its power and influence, flexing its military muscle by threatening an invasion of Taiwan. In South America, authoritarian regimes continue to strengthen their hold.
These problems call for a real American leader to rise to power. Unfortunately, leaders who can unite us with calming rhetoric and effective policy are scarce in the U.S. today. Take the two candidates who just ran for the highest offce.
While Donald Trump may have won commandingly on election night to become the first Republican to win the popular vote since 2004, the president-elect is incapable of the leadership required to unite and inspire the country. His rhetoric is so divisive and even disgusting that it will never be able to bridge the deepening partisan divide.
Just in his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has pledged to “root out the communists, Marxists, fascists, and the radical left thugs that live like vermin within the confnes of our country,” while also questioning his opponent’s racial identity, competence and much more.
His presence on the political scene also causes a visceral reaction from many of those who dislike him. During the campaign, left-wing politicians and media spent the majority of the election painting Donald Trump as a threat to democracy and a fascist leader, even going so far as to compare his rally at Madison Square Garden on Oct. 27 to a Nazi rally held in 1939 at the same location.
This extremely negative reaction continued even after the election was called. On The View, host Sunny Hostin claimed Latino Texans voted for the former president because of “misogyny and sexism,” while MSNBC host Joy Reid scolded white female voters for “not coming through” for Harris.
Whether you agree with these sentiments or not, Trump and his supporters seem to bring out the worst in many media fgures and liberal
politicians, including his opponents. President Joe Biden had to clarify comments where he appeared to suggest that Trump supporters were “garbage” and Hillary Clinton famously called his supporters a “basket of deplorables.” Attacking Trump supporters by comparing them to Nazis or garbage does everything but unite the country. Unfortunately, it is popular rhetoric when referring to Trump and his support base.
Vice President Kamala Harris did not offer Americans a much better option. Her failure to win the election highlights her inability to appeal to independent voters or traditional Republicans who are frustrated with Trump’s behavior. She was also an important part of the Biden Administration, which failed to produce effective and effcient policy.
During the Biden/Harris administration, infation hit a four-decade high of 9%, the country experienced a massive Southern border crisis and a disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan left 13 U.S. troops dead. When asked on the campaign if there was anything she would do differently Harris responded, simply by saying, “not a thing comes to mind.”
An Oct. 2-4 study for the Center Square Voters’ Voice Poll shows 60% of voters believe the country is headed in the wrong direction. Gallup reports that Biden’s presidential approval rating has consistently hovered around 40% and almost 50% of the country had a negative opinion of Harris at one point in her term, according to the Hill.
Biden and Harris’ rhetoric may have been more calming and uniting than Trump’s, but their policies failed many Americans. They did not give America confidence in their governing ability or the path forward, a massive shortcoming in leadership and a main reason why Harris wasn’t re-elected.
That brings us right back to my point. This country needs a real leader. Not someone who will just calm the discourse, like Biden and Harris might have done, or someone who will bring economic prosperity and peace, like Trump somewhat did in his first term.
We need someone who can do it all and more. Someone who does what is best for the Ameri can people and the world, not what is best for their party or themselves.
Someone who can unite us at home so that we can fix chaos abroad because no country, even one as powerful and influ ential as the United States, can properly address the chaos outside its borders if there is chaos with in them.
Most importantly, we need someone whose policies are effective at improving the lives of the American people and in turn has the trust of those people.
Neither of the can didates on this year’s
ballot met those requirements, but there is still hope.
Governors like Pennsylvania Democrat Josh Shapiro and Virginia Republican Glenn Youngkin have come to power in states that don’t often elect members of their respective parties, but they have posted impressive track records along with strong approval ratings.
Both may run for president in 2028, but until at least then, this country will be without the leader it so desperately needs.
“The
perfect candidate lies behind door 48”
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Lauren Ferrer Contributed Graphic
By Madeline Darby Staf Writer
Former President Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris to become the 47th President of the United States. However, reactions to his victory at the University of Miami have been mixed, with students from all sides of the aisle sharing their perspec tives on the election results.
UM students react to the 2024 election results
“We are very pleased with the result of this election. While many seek to divide us with fear or hatred, we believe it is time to put America frst through fnding collaborative ways to fx our domestic issues and listening to each other’s perspectives.”
Despite facing four indictments, 34 felony charges and two attempts on his life, Trump has fipped states that were previously won by President Joe Biden in 2020 and secured the popular vote with a lead of nearly 5 million votes.
“It
Theodros Fekade // UM College Republicans Treasurer
wasn’t odd because both candidates have held major ofce positions, including presidential term in 2016, so I was able to make a clear decision based on the history of the policies put in place by both candidates.”
Jack
Hyland // Freshman Finance and Accounting Major
“We are extremely disheartened to hear about the loss of democratic federal, state, and local ofces last night, along with the failure of Amendments 3 & 4 in the state of Florida.”
Ofcal Statement // UM Democrats
“I was hesitant to vote because I did not have a strong preference towards either candidate, but I ultimately came to a decision as to who I thought was best ft to be the president of our country.”
Sienna Mesa Freshman Legal Studies Major
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer Sophomores Sonit Mattoo (left), Trey Shealey (center), Luca La Monaca (right) demonstrate for the University of Miami Democrats Club outside the Watsco voting center on Nov. 5, 2024.
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer Senior Andres Beata holds up “I voted” sticker at the Watsco voting center on Nov. 5, 2024.
“I am relieved that some of my moral beliefs will be represented in domestic afairs.”
Mary Blinn // Sophomore International Studies Major
[Trump’s] landslide to me showed that his platform wasn’t so much about Republican or Democrat , but instead the voice of change.”
Nicole Carbonell Junior Finance Major
“It was a pivotal moment in history.”
Lucy Schwab // Freshman Neuroscience Major
Marra Finkelstein
Contributing Photographer
Junior Lauren Lassiter holds up her ‘I Voted’ sticker outside of the Watsco voting center on Nov.
5, 2024.
“This is the day where America will begin to love God again.”
Lucas Herring // Junior Mathematics Major
Marra Finkelstein Contributing Photographer Trump supporters on election night gather to support Trump in front of Cafe Versailles on Nov. 5, 2024.
First-time voters step into America’s political spotlight
By Grace Andruzzi Contributing Writer
Many college students voted in their first presidential election this November. For these students, this experience was filled with mixed emotions: excitement, responsibility and uncertainty.
Jack Hyland, a first-time voter finance and accounting student at the University of Miami, felt all these emotions at the polls.
“I was excited to finally be able to express my political beliefs in a way that really matters,” Hyland said.
First-time voters recognized their chance to execute their role in shaping the future of their country.
“As you get older, you start to care more about politics, so it was one of the first years I really became involved with this topic,” Chiara Ambrosini, a first year voter and student at UM, said.
Politics can tend to be a sensitive subject for some, and especially when the people around you may have opposing viewpoints. It’s not uncommon for people under the age of 18 to avoid that topic completely.
“I was hesitant to vote in this year’s election because throughout my life, I tended to steer away from the topic of politics altogether,” Jordyn Hemmens, a first year voter and health science major at the University of Miami, said.
On election day, some first-timers felt nervous about the process, especially with the setup of voting machines, ballot marking and polling etiquette.
For some, the experience was empowering, while others encountered unexpected barriers, like long lines or complex ballots.
Sienna Mesa, a legal studies major at UM and a first-time voter, went to the polls at the Watsco Center on campus for the first time this election day.
“I thought the line would be really long to wait for voting, but when I got there it was actually short,” Mesa said. “I assumed most people voted early.”
Ambrosini had a similarly quick visit.
“I waited in line for about 40 minutes. It wasn’t too bad. There were people in line promoting different candidates for different positions,” Ambrosini said.
Once they cast their ballots, they felt a sense of accomplishment from participating in the democratic process and contributing to the future.
“It was nice to feel like I had a say in the leadership of this country,” Mesa said.
The first-time voters left with a stronger appreciation for the importance of civic engagement, viewing this as the beginning of their ongoing role in society’s democratic journey.
With Donald Trump winning the
“I was excited to finally be able to express my political beliefs in a way that really matters.”
Jack Hyland First-Year Finance & Accounting Student at UM
election, their impact on the outcome is not lost on them.
With emotions running high after the election results, many mixed opinions were brought to social media. Fights in most comments sections from political posts on social media defined their personal pages.
“My entire for-you page on TikTok is political propaganda. Lots of Trump edits, Kamala rallies, and fan quotes. Every time I scroll, it’s a new video of either political candidate,” said Madeline Peterson, first year marine science student and first-time voter.
Ambrosini feels positive about the results, though she recognizes the tension among peers with opposing viewpoints.
“I am pretty glad with the outcome of the election,” Ambrosini said. “I’ve seen a lot of posts in favor of the results, and a lot of posts saddened by the results. I can only hope for the best. Even though a lot of people don’t like Trump, I feel like the Republican Party has a lot of good plans and can really help us economically.”
On the other hand, while Lucy Schwab, a first year student major-
ing in neuroscience, felt grateful to exercise her right to vote, she is not necessarily happy with the result.
“It was hard to be happy with the outcome of this election because both parties seemed very extreme on either side of the political spectrum,” Schwab said. “From my experiences, the majority of people don’t try to be rational about certain extremes.”
For these young voters, their first election represents not just a single vote, but the beginning of their active role in the ongoing journey of shaping their society’s future.
Marra Finkelstein // Contributing Photographer
Freshman voters Brittney Jennings (left) and Christina Warren (right) at the Watsco Voting Center on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
Politics or pop culture
The rise of celebrities in presidential campaigns
By Jenna Simone Contributing Writer
Blurring the lines between entertainment and politics, celebrity endorsements and influencers have been more prominent this election cycle. Presidential candidates used their influence to target young voters, help increase overall turnout, and take advantage of social media this election season.
Let’s dive into some examples of this strategy and how it could have turned the tables, from Kamala Harris’s appearance on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast to Donald Trump’s feature on “The Joe Rogan Experience.”
Alex Cooper, a well-known American podcaster and host of “Call Her Daddy,” brought Harris onto her podcast, which caters towards a younger female audience. The two then talked about laws regarding reproductive rights.
“The government shouldn’t be telling [a pregnant woman] what to do. If she chooses, she’ll talk to her priest, her pastor, her rabbi, her mom, but not
the government telling you what to do. And that’s what’s so outrageous about it,” Harris said.
Viewers from both political parties voiced their opinions on Harris’s appearance on this podcast, known for its conversations about gossip, relationships and sex.
“I think going on podcasts can be fine, but when it’s taken to the scale of something like ‘Call Her Daddy,’ it can seem unprofessional, “ Emma Paccione, a freshman finance student at UM, said. “Politicians should be going on true educational outlets because it seems ingenuine when they use very Gen Z influences.”
Some viewers stated it was an inappropriate setting for a presidential candidate, while others argued Trump had used the same strategy.
Trump was featured on the “The Joe Rogan Experience” podcast, with his episode garnering over 45 million views on YouTube. American podcaster and comedian Joe Rogan discussed topics like inflation, election fraud, political polls, the environment and his opponent, Harris.
“It’s honestly scary how our presi-
dential candidates are playing around on social media,” Jason Hugh, freshman computer science major, said.
Harris has used Gen Z appeals by having famous female rappers such as Megan Thee Stallion and Glorilla perform at her rallies.These appearances
made fans question how these artists relate to politics.
Celebrities endorsing Trump include Elon Musk and Dave Portnoy. Major pop-stars like Taylor Swift, Beyonce and Bad Bunny endorsed Harris.
“Why should I care who Taylor Swift or Bad Bunny is supporting? It just feels so unnecessary,” Lucas Velasquez, freshman computer science major, said.
The political campaign has also been brought to TikTok. Both Trump and Harris used the app to post more unserious, casual content — a move by both
Gabriel Viaud // Contributing Designer
parties to try and engage young voters aged 18-24.
For example, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, JD Vance posted a TikTok comparing Harris and Trump’s political power through beer.
“I don’t think TikTok and politics should mix,” Graham Thompson, freshman double majoring in finance and accounting, said.
This reflects a broader shift toward trying to sell a candidate’s personality rather than their agenda, which may not always resonate with voters seeking genuine political engagement.
Their appearances haven’t come without costs. Harris’ surprise appearance on “Saturday Night Live” on Nov. 2 violated “equal time” rules that govern political programming. The federal equal time rule was established by the Federal Communications Commission to make broadcasters give political candidates equal air time.
To fix the violation of the equal time rule, the broadcast network gave Trump a chance to directly address voters during a Nascar playoff race on Sunday, Nov. 3.
While these social media campaign strategies aim to reach younger audiences, they raise concerns about the professionalism of the political process, making the political landscape feel more like a performance than a serious exchange of ideas.
‘Saturday Night Live’ sketches turn candidates into punchlines
By Brendan Cafferty Contributing Writer
If “Saturday Night Live” can do one thing well, it’s poking fun at the nation’s political climate.
With the 2024 election season behind us, it is time to reflect on this and previous years’ elections. What better way to do that than rewatch old “SNL” political sketches?
With outlandish depictions of national leaders, such as Jim Carrey’s Joe Biden as the fly on Mike Pence’s head in the “VP Fly Debate Cold Open” (2020), “SNL” has been able to find humor in the political process.
Take a look back at some of the best skits that have defined presidential campaigns:
“President Reagan, Mastermind” (1986)
Phil Hartman’s performance as former President Ronald Reagan opens with an reporting interviewing him acting clueless to the controversies within his administration.
However, once the reporter leaves, with a clap of excitement, Reagan calls in his administration, showing a heavy involvement in the controversies, such as the Iran Contra Affair.
Playing into the evil-genius archetype, Hartman spins Reagan’s wholesome image into a conniving leader.
“First Presidential Debate: Al Gore and George W. Bush” (2000) Starring Darrell Hammond as Al Gore and a young Will Ferrell as Bush, the sketch plays on Bush’s knack for mispro-
nouncing words in his debates.
Hammond’s slow southern drawl and Ferrell’s simple responses with his refusal to pronounce certain names of foreign leaders parody the election’s vice presidential nominees.
Ferrell’s inability to pronounce “strategy” took on a life of its own. “Strategery,” as it was pronounced, became a phrase embraced by the Bush administration in a lighthearted manner.
“Sarah Palin and Hillary Clinton Address the Nation” (2008) Comedic forces Tina Fey (Sarah Palin) and Amy Poehler (Hillary Clinton) took on the roles of the two drastically different political figures.
Responding to sexism, the 2008 election, and global warming, the two actors give exaggerated responses that amplify
their differences.
Clinton’s maniac laughter as Palin speaks on her intent to “make it to the White House” sums up the hilarity of the episode’s cold-open. Fey’s portrayal of Palin would go on to be one of her most popular characters.
Palin later appeared in the audience of the show’s 40th anniversary show to poke fun at the cold opens about her.
“Michael Cohen Wiretap Cold Open” (2018)
Featuring Ben Stiller as Cohen and Baldwin as Trump, the scene depicts a call between Cohen and Trump as the FBI taps in during the Stormy Daniels affair.
The erratic performance by Stiller as he desperately tries to reach Trump, while accidentally dialing more political caricatures, cements this skit in “SNL” history.
“2024 Pre-Election Cold Open” (2024)
Featuring Maya Rudolph as Kamala Harris, this skit surprised viewers when the actual Harris actually joined her Rudolph on stage.
Opening with a comedic representation of a Trump rally, Rudolph’s Harris reflects on the election with her mirror reflection, which is actually Harris on stage with her. Rudolph’s impression of Harris’ laugh and plays on Kamala’s name made the real Harris break character and chuckle along, opening the show in an unseen way.
Certainly in this year’s election, “SNL” has proven it’s a one-of-a-kind show that can turn political turmoil into a joke.
So, in the wake of the results, regardless of opinion, turn to these skits in search of a good laugh.
Georgia Tech pulls of the upset, serves Miami its frst loss
By Jayden Gonzalez Contributing Writer
With two minutes left in the fourth quarter, the fourth-ranked Miami Hurricanes (9-1, 5-1 ACC) were searching for their fourth doubledigit comeback victory of the season against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-4, 4-3 ACC).
Down fve, Miami quarterback Cam Ward was sacked and lost the football while trying to make a play. That turnover led the fans at Bobby Dodd Stadium to storm the feld as the Yellow Jackets upset the Hurricanes 28-23 on Saturday afternoon.
“They played better and coached better than we did,” Miami head coach Mario Cristobal said to WQAM radio.
Miami had a chance for one last effort following the fumble. On third down, Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King fipped the ball to Eric Singleton Jr., who picked up the frst down and slid in bounds to keep the clock running. King took a knee, ending the game.
Georgia Tech won this afternoon because of a dominant rushing attack against the Miami defense. The Yellow Jackets controlled over 34 minutes of
game clock, running the ball 48 times for 271 yards and two touchdowns.
“They did what they do,” Cristobal said to reporters about the Yellow Jackets’ run game. “It falls on all of us, the way they ran the football.”
At the beginning of the second quarter, King hit a wide-open Malik Rutherford for a fve-yard touchdown. That score capped off a 17-play, 74-yard drive that lasted nearly 11 minutes. In that drive, GT ran the ball 14 of 17 times, a trend that continued for the rest of the game.
The Yellow Jackets cycled between both King and true freshman quarterback Aaron Philo. King did most of the running while Philo came in to throw, although that was rare.
King fnished the day completing all six of his throws for 32 yards and a touchdown. On the ground, King ran 20 times for 93 yards and a touchdown.
The ’Canes looked off offensively on Saturday, something that has not been the case for the best offense in college football. UM converted 30% of their third downs and 25% on fourth downs. Entering this game, UM was the best on third downs and ninth in the country on fourth downs.
On a fourth and long, Ward needed 16
yards to extend the drive and put a dent in their 12-point defcit. After trying to extend the play, Ward was sacked as Mi ami failed to convert on fourth down for the third consecutive time.
Ward fnished the day com pleting 25 of his 39 throws for 348 yards and three touchdowns and one fumble. The ffthyear senior passed Steve Walsh for most touchdowns in a single season by a Miami quarter back, with 30.
“I just think we didn’t play our best ball,” Ward told report ers after the game. “At the end of the day, we’re the best offense in the coun try, and we put up 23 points.”
Down 12, the Hurricanes needed a score to have a chance at completing another comeback. On frst down, Ward found a wide-open Xavier Restrepo for a 38-yard score, bringing the defcit to fve.
At the beginning of the game, Ward hit Restrepo for a 21-yard gain. That catch broke Mike Harley’s record for most receptions ever by a Miami player, with 183. Restrepo fnished the day with four catches for 78 yards and one touchdown.
UM has played the “Cardiac ’Canes” mantra all season long, leading them to a 9-0 start to the season for the frst time since 2017. There were obvious
concerns that UM had yet to fx, relying on Ward and the offense to be fawless because of the porous defense.
It took a 25-point comeback to take down California in Berkeley, an overturned hail mary against Virginia Tech to escape defeat, a heroic performance from Ward against Louisville and outscoring Duke 36-3 for this Miami team to stay undefeated.
For the second time in the Cristobal era, Georgia Tech beat an unbeaten Miami team. The 2023 ’Canes lost to the Yellow Jackets in improbable fashion, sending them into a spiral of losing fve of their next six.
The 2024 ’Canes hope this loss doesn’t show parallels to 2023 or even 2017, where Miami lost three in a row after starting the season 10-0.
UM still controls its own destiny to make the College Football Playoff. The Hurricanes will make the ACC championship game if they win their next two against Wake Forest and Syracuse. A win in the ACC championship game would clinch a playoff berth for the ’Canes.
The Hurricanes will be able to regroup next week after the loss with a bye. UM’s next game will be on Nov. 23 against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Hard Rock Stadium.
Campbell: Takeaways from Miami’s devastating loss to the Yellow Jackets
By Ali Campbell Contributing Writer
For a Miami offense that led the nation in several major statistics, Georgia Tech’s key to slowing the Hurricanes down was simple. Keep them off the feld.
A 9-0 Miami team entered Bobby Dodd Stadium Saturday, hoping to achieve a 10-0 start for the frst time since 2017, but the Yellow Jackets had other plans. After leading 10-7 in the frst quarter, the Hurricanes failed to lead again during the remainder of the game and ultimately fell to Georgia Tech by a score of 28-23.
Going into the game, the Hurricanes were ranked No. 4 on the AP Top 25 College Football poll; however, this loss caused them to drop a colossal eight spots and are now ranked No. 12. Miami will now have no choice but to win out the rest of the season if they want to continue playing in December.
“Extremely, extremely disappointing.
I think, as you can imagine, the entire locker room is really sad, down, disappointed. You have to own it,” head coach Mario Cristobal said to reporters.
Run defense has to be fxed, stop big plays
Georgia Tech carried the ball 48 times for 271 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry against. Miami. The lack of run defense is something that has been a constant this season for the Miami defense. When the ’Canes faced Virginia Tech earlier in the season, they gave up 206 yards and two touchdowns on 32 carries. Giving up the big play is also something the Hurricanes seemingly do every week.
Georgia Tech running back Jamal Haynes carried the ball only three times for 83 yards, with a 65-yard burst coming on the second play of the game, putting the Yellow Jackets in prime position to score early. This is against a team whose entire game
plan was around running the football. Quarterbacks Aaron Philo and Haynes King only threw the ball 16 times combined, completing 11 of those passes for 99 yards. On the ground, King ran for 93 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Miami’s inability to stop the run exposed them in this game but will be much more costly when facing a team in the College Football playoffs, if it makes it.
Cam Ward and the offense can’t save Miami every week
Entering the game against Georgia Tech, Miami held the title of the best offense in the country. They ranked frst in total offensive yards per game, passing yards per game and points scored per game.
However, the offense cannot be as prolifc as Hurricanes fans are used to seeing when they are not on the feld.
When Georgia Tech was on offense, it emphasized long, clock-ticking drives to prevent the frepower of the Miami of-
fense. Even when it fnally got the ball, the Miami offense was not as effcient as usual. Coming into Saturday leading the nation on third-down conversion rate at 56.5%, the Hurricanes only converted three of 10 third downs against Georgia Tech and only one of four fourth downs. Heisman candidate Cam Ward cannot be the guy that Miami relies on to win every single game, and his usual heroics can only take Miami so far.
Miami runs out of late-game comebacks
Miami’s unbeaten run through the frst nine games of the season included three games where the Hurricanes trailed at halftime and were able to pull through and come back in the second half. Miami beat Duke 53-31 last week after the Blue Devils had a 28-17 lead in the third quarter, and it came back from down 25 points in the third quarter against California to secure a 39-38 win. This was not the case against Georgia
Tech, as the Hurricanes trailed for nearly the whole contest aside from a 10-7 lead that came early in the fourth quarter. The ’Canes almost pulled it off, being down 16-28 with a late 38-yard touchdown to Xavier Restrepo to cut the lead down to fve. Miami was given a last chance by the defense, and Ward and the offense got the ball back with two minutes left in the game. However, a strip sack that was recovered by Georgia Tech ended the streak of late-game comebacks for Miami.
The Yellow Jackets executed their game plan to perfection, with an explosive run game that helped them dominate the time of possession and a defense that never allowed the Miami offense to get into a steady rhythm.
Miami remains with one of the best records in the ACC after a tough road loss, but to fnd success in the postseason, the Hurricanes have to clean up their defense and not rely solely on the offense to bail them out.
Kameron Taylor // Contributing Photographer Sophomore defensive back Jaden Harris getting set during Miami’s game against Georgia Tech Saturday, Nov. 9th, 2024, in Atlanta, Ga.
Miami MBB sends Binghamton home packing in a 88-64 win
By Zach Cohen Contributing Writer
Miami’s 48% feld goal percentage led to an 88-64 victory versus the Binghamton Bearcats on Sunday afternoon at the Watsco Center.
The Hurricanes were led by Indiana natives Jalen Blackmon and Nijel Peck. Pack and Blackmon’s backcourt connection ran strong all afternoon, leading to both players having 17-point performances.
“We have a really dynamic backcourt, I would say for sure, the ability for both of us to shoot the ball around the court and just kind of playing off each other,” Pack said about the connection between Blackmon and himself.
Blackmon and Pack’s presence certainly helped the Hurricanes come out victorious; however, this game wasn’t a cakewalk.
“Leading into this game on Friday, we weren’t sharp in practice at all. Yesterday, [practice] was a little better. First half today was a little better than that, but the second half was not there. Mostly inconsistently at the defensive end. Our defense in the frst half was pretty solid, but in the second half, we gave up too many threes, too many layups,” Miami head coach Jim Larrañaga said.
Binghamton’s Gavin Walsh, a 6-foot-8 forward from Maryland, scored 21 points and had 10 rebounds. Ben Callahan-Gold also had a notable
performance for the Bearcats, totaling seven points, four rebounds and two assists in the losing effort.
Binghamton came out hot in both halves. Miami will have to avoid getting out to slow starts like these against better opponents as the season progresses.
“We have to pick up the energy level. Honestly, we were dead. They came out ready to play, and we knew they would do that. And you just need to be able to pick it up and things were able to turn around for us,” Pack told reporters.
The freshmen were a big reason why the Hurricanes were able to turn the game around this afternoon. Five-star prospect Jalil Bethea hit a three-pointer from downtown at the 10-minute mark in the frst half, which initiated a momentum shift in Miami’s favor. Bethea ended the game with 13 points, going fve-for-fve at the free-throw line.
Divine Ugochukwu, coming off a great debut against Fairleigh Dickinson, where he scored 15 points, was a key contributor to today’s victory. With time winding down in the second half, Ugochuwu made a statement one-handed slam, leaving his teammates and the crowd in a frenzy.
“If you see, those freshmen are earning playing time. You see what Jalil did. You see Divine comes into the game and plays really well. And then Austin [Swartz] comes into the second half, and the frst thing he does is bury a three, so we’ve got to fgure out the role those guys are going to play,” Larrañaga said.
The freshmen certainly helped out in winning today’s game, but basketball is a team game, and Miami certainly showed that. UM had four players in double fgures and nine players scored.
Brandon Johnson, the East Carolina transfer, scored 10 points and tallied seven rebounds. In the second half, he drove hard to the basket, creating contact that resulted in a foul and a basket setting up the three-point play.
Matthew Cleveland had nine points, including an alley-oop dunk, which put the fans on their feet.
The ’Canes will be back in action at the Watsco Center on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. to take on Coppin State.
Hurricanes WBB beats Stetson in women’s basketball season opener
By Brendan Caferty Contributing Writer
The visiting grade school students in the stands at the Watsco Center created a lively atmosphere for Miami’s 78-53 season-opening win against Stetson.
The matchup between Stetson and Miami saw the Hatters’ defense gradually devolve as the ’Canes slowly took control of the game.
Miami’s frst points came from a steal and assist from Hanna Cavinder to Hailey Cavinder. The twins com-
bined for 21 total points and nine rebounds.
After some tough defensive play from both teams, Stetson claimed the frst three-pointer of the game, draining one with just under six minutes left in the frst quarter.
Feeding off of fouls, Miami put another two points on the board, keeping the score close at 8-6. Stetson couldn’t be stopped from the outside, hitting its fourth consecutive three-pointer. But Miami quickly responded with one of its own, pushing the score to 14-9.
The beginning of the second quarter saw Hailey sink a jumper from
the free-throw line. Miami then hit another two-pointer, cutting Stetson’s lead to one. Miami assumed the lead at 19 to Stetson’s 18 from Hailey’s free throws.
Guard Lemyah Hylton drew a charge and scored on an easy three points from the and-one, pushing Miami to a 22-18 lead. The ’Canes continued to capitalize on Stetson’s mistakes, with forward Natalija Marshall and Hanna drawing fouls, making the lead 25-18.
Marshall, a graduate transfer from Notre Dame, led the team in rebounds, totaling 12 on the day. Freshman guard
Leah Harmon continued to wear down Stetson’s defense, draining a stepback jump shot to put the ’Canes up six.
Michigan transfer forward Cameron Williams’s free throws created a 32-25 halftime advantage for the Hurricanes.
Stetson’s frst possession of the second half resulted in a three-pointer but was quickly answered by veteran guard Jasmyne Roberts’ and Marshall’s two-pointers. Hanna matched Stetson’s layup with her own score, setting the game at 38-32.
Roberts snagged a pass for a clutch steal and breakaway and then put up
another two points, giving the ’Canes a sizable 44-32 lead. Hanna’s threepointer and freshman guard Anhay Adams’ layup with just a minute left in the third quarter put the Hurricanes up 53-38 over the Hatters.
A deep three from senior guard Darrione Rogers put the ’Canes up 20 in the beginning of the fourth. Stetson’s faltering offense allowed Miami to return to its fast-paced playstyle, capitalizing on turnovers and tacking on another four to balloon the Hurricanes’ lead to 24.
Roberts’ 16 points led the Hurricanes in their 25-point win.
Emily Rice // Senior Staf Photographer
Senior guard Jalen Blackmon shoots a midrange jumper in Miami’s win against Binghamton on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024.
Katie Meier’s journey from the court to the classroom
By Caleb Shapiro Staf Writer
As the University of Miami (UM) women’s basketball team enters its season, among the new faces, there is a clear absence, that of Katie Meier.
After 19 seasons of leading the ’Canes, the former head coach retired at the end of the 2023-24 season, leaving a legendary resume in her footprints.
“I wanted all these things. I wanted to go to the Elite Eight. I wanted to win the ACC. I wanted to be a national team coach,” Meier said. “All these things I was able to do, I did them, I wanted them, but they just add on top of each other.”
Aside from the accolades Meier named, she was awarded the Associated Press National Coach of the Year
honor in 2011 and was inducted into the UM Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.
Meier further cemented herself into legendary status in 2021, winning a home opener against Jackson State, elevating her to the all-time leader in wins – men’s or women’s –in Hurricanes’ basketball history. Yet even the greats must know when it’s time for a change.
“It’s funny. In coaching, I think if it’s a maybe, it’s a no,” Meier said.
Meier is stepping down for multiple reasons: to focus on her family, the changing politics of college coaching and to work with UM in donor relations for intercollegiate athletics.
However, just because she’s done on the basketball court doesn’t mean she’s done coaching. In the midst of her new normal, Meier continues to coach, just in the classroom.
“I’m just coaching. I’m coaching in
the classroom. I’m teaching about all the changes in collegiate, intercollegiate athletics right now,” Meier said.
The class is KIN 204, a course in Miami’s kinesiology program teaching the administration of intercollegiate athletics. Some of her students call her coach instead of the common title, professor, and Meier relishes this.
“Most of the class has not had a coach before. And for me to come at them, like, ‘Listen, too bad, I don’t care that the paper’s late,’ like that. That’s a little different. They’re not used to that,” she said.
It’s a role that lets Meier keep to her roots and the reason why her nine-year assistant coach at UM and friend, Fitzroy Anthony, believes this transition will come naturally.
“She’s going to treat it like the basketball court, where she’s going to be overprepared so she can make sure
she’s giving her students what they need to be successful,” Anthony said.
Anthony’s right. The truth is, even with her players, Meier’s heart and respect has always been earned in the classroom.
“I was really proud, 100% of anyone who played for years for me my entire career, as a head coach at Charlotte and at Miami, they all graduated,” she said.
Yet above all, Meier’s goal with coaching and teaching is to empower younger generations with her words.
“That’s what I try to instill in all the young people. I mean, life’s going to be hard. There’s going to be a lot of people rooting against you. If you’re going to do something, just do it. Do it your way. And don’t worry all the time about what other people are saying or thinking. Just go be you,” Meier said.
Before concluding the frst half down 32-38, Head Coach Katie Meier coaches her team on defense during the narrow loss against FSU.
Charisma Jones // Contributed Photo
Unapologetic. Bold. Unfiltered.
V’s Take is The Miami Hurricane’s most controversial and longest running column.
V’s Take is a satirical work published biweekly by students and for students using our generation’s “colorful” language. V addresses all things love, sex and gossip on campus. V is not for the politically correct or easily ofended.
So, Amendent 4 failed... what now?
Dear V, I accidently introduced my parents to my talking stage. Help.
If you can’t pass the law, you can’t hit it raw
Trojan, Durex, Skyn — just a few names you men are going to want to start getting familiar with. Amendment 4’s failure not only means women’s access to abortion is basically nonexistent but that your chances of hitting it raw are too.
Regardless of how you voted, we’re all dealing with the consequences of the six-week law. Many of you (ahem men) think this probably doesn’t affect you, but V is here to remind you that behind all of your one-night stands is a girl anxiously awaiting her period to confirm she doesn’t have to be the mother of your frat sperm offspring.
So how are the girls and all those with a uterus feeling now you ask? Probably scream singing the Girls in the Hood lyric, “I’M SICK OF MOTHERFUCKERS TRYING TO TELL ME HOW TO LIVE.”
The situation has gotten so serious that some of you icons may even be considering joining the 4B Movement that encourages no sex, no dating, no marriage, no kids.
But for all of my hopeless romantics, lovers of dick and borderline sex addicts, V is here for you. We need to change our tune from all or nothing, to having safe sex given the circumstances — at least until the Yes on 4 baddies get our rights back. (In case you were wondering, V stands for Voted Yes on 4).
Now, what does extra safe sex look like? It means using two forms of birth control, whether that’s a condom and an IUD or a patch and a diaphragm. It also may include abstaining from penetrative sex during the ovulation window (if you don’t know what this means, Google is free). In language my male readers will understand, this means a whole lot more eating pussy and a whole lot less fucking.
So if you want to be able to get raunchy without a rubber, get educated. Figure out why this is so important and then figure out how to help. Whether that be supporting your friends during these tough times, or finding out how you can help on a political level — support the women in your life.
Just to make it clear, V gets it. Not everyone will support abortion, but what we can’t stand for is not supporting women and their ability to make these decisions for themselves.
And to be extra clear, to anyone who shames someone else for making safe sex decisions that work for them (and maybe voted no on 4), I hope you are denied the joys of a blissful midafternoon orgasm.
V loves you always.
Love, V
