Despite which side of the political aisle you fall on, Black American women from all walks of life share many of the same concerns. Some may have different opinions on how those issues should be addressed but the overall concern for survival is the same. Increasing costs for everyday living are some of the biggest challenges.

“How will this improve over the next four years,” Marquesha Wilson asked. “Will we be able to provide for our household comfortably or will most people live check to check?”

As another presidential election approaches, voting women explain the issues they want to change in the next election.

The Economy

Several women 21Ninety spoke to did not hesitate to express how concerned they are about money and the economy. Inflation is a big issue this election cycle. Voters say they are hoping to see it ease sooner rather than later.

“The continuous increase of groceries, gas, and insurance are impacting numerous individuals,” Jessica Thomas said.

Some say it’s tough to afford vacations or the auto draft option as a way to pay their bills.

“I want to have financial freedom to be able to do what I want for myself and my family without having to check first,” Brandolyn Hellams said. 

Women hope that better paying jobs will lead to a better quality of life. 

“Not having the financial wealth I feel I deserve can be stressful at times because my rent is high, my car note is high, and my credit card payments are high,” Shaniqua Brown revealed. “ I don’t really have the freedom to do a lot of things I would like to do, such as travel.”

Affordable Housing

Rent and mortgage prices have risen in recent years. It’s yet another financial issue women face, and hope will change after the election.

“Not being in my own home has resulted in me having to pay high rent,” Brown said.

It’s such a concern that some worry that buying a home is getting further away from their reach.

“I’m hoping the housing market will improve because the idea of affordable home ownership or rental is becoming more obsolete,” Thomas told 21Ninety.

Even women who work in real estate notice that affordable housing options create hurdles for the potential clients.

“Being a realtor, housing costs have made it challenging for families to be able to purchase a home,” Shameka Ward said.

Women’s Rights

The complete power for women to make their own decisions over their bodies was another topic many women brought up.

“The overturning of Roe v. Wade has created so many controversial issues including abortions and birth control,” Chelsey Watts said.

They agreed that pregnant women should always be able to choose a path that’s best for them without the interference of the law.

“The government should not be able to dictate women’s health,” Ward said.

College Costs

For women who are planning to send their children to college, the cost of tuition sometimes comes with sticker shock. 

“Since I have a soon-to-be college student, I have concerns about tuition and other fees,” NaTasha Thomas explained. “My daughter and I are looking at all available scholarships and grants to help pay the high costs.”

Paying for college remains a concern even years after graduating. One woman said an election issue she is passionate about is raises for teachers to help offset student loan debt.

“A sufficient raise for teachers could cover my major expenses like student loan debt,” said Sonja Harris. “It would help me live without struggling to make decisions between paying bills or buying groceries.”

When it comes to repaying student loans, one voter thinks it should be easier for borrowers to get some sort of forgiveness.

“If people find themselves in hardship or if they have to get a higher education for their career, I think that those things should be considered in the repayment of loans,” said Angela Williams.