This story is part of a special series where Planet Detroit’s neighborhood reporters hit the streets to capture local perspectives on voting and civic participation. Through interviews with community members across Detroit, we explore the challenges, motivations, and hopes that shape how our neighbors engage with the democratic process. These stories spotlight the diverse voices and experiences that define voting in our city, offering a window into the ways Detroiters view their role in shaping the future.
Neighborhood Reporting Lab is supported by the Americana and Kresge Foundations.
Planet Detroit Neighborhood reporter Ambirr Momon interviews her mother about the election.
Ambirr Momon: What is your name, age, and occupation?
Michelle Taylor: My name is Michelle. I am 58 years old, and I am retired. I worked in skilled trades for Chrysler for 28 years. I live in Detroit. I’ve lived here my entire life.
Ambirr: Are you voting in this year’s election?
Michelle: Of course.
Ambirr: Do you believe that your vote makes a difference?
Michelle: Sure do.
Ambirr: Why do you feel that way?
Michelle: Because that’s what I’ve always known. You vote for the elections, and everybody’s vote counts.
Ambirr: What issues do you care most about in the upcoming election? What would you say are your top three issues?
Michelle: My top three issues would be the economy, inflation, and the candidates’ stances on international business deals.
Ambirr: How do health, climate, and the environment factor into your voting decisions this election?
Michelle: That’s kind of important to the climate and the global warming stuff. I’m interested in that too. I believe it’s real. I think that a lot of people in the government are not taking it as seriously as it really is. Regarding the healthcare issue, I just really wish that the United States wasn’t so greedy. If our government wasn’t so into capitalism because other countries can have free healthcare, there’s no reason why the United States shouldn’t.
Ambirr: Did you watch either the Republican or Democratic National Convention?
Michelle: Yes, I did.
Ambirr: What did you like and what would you have hoped to hear the speakers say if they hadn’t addressed any of your concerns?
Michelle: Kamala addressed a few things that were better than Trump because Trump doesn’t really ever address anything. He just talks about stupid things, people he doesn’t like, and how much revenge he will get when he gets in office. I would like to hear them tell me what they’re going to do about the high, rising prices that we’re getting in the grocery stores, what they’re going to do about it. I would like them to discuss what kind of healthcare plan they’re working on. I need them to talk about what they will do with Medicaid and Medicare. I would also like them to address global warming and what they will do about that. I would also like to know what they’re going to do with all the money that they’re giving to other countries to help them fight wars when they need to keep that money here and help the people in the United States who are homeless and struggling.
Ambirr: When it comes to concerns that are most pressing to you in your community, like Detroit, District Two, do you feel like air quality, access to clean water, climate resilience, green jobs, or anything else, is really something that you want to see change?
Michelle: Yes, all that – clean water, clean air, climate resilience, green jobs. We need all of that. They really need to work on better energy, like solar panels. I see them around certain areas, but they need to do more.
Ambirr: Is there anything else you’d like to share about the upcoming election, including your thoughts or how you feel about it?
Michelle: I just hope everybody gets out there and votes. I hope everybody goes and gets their family members, calls everybody they know, and makes sure if they need a ride, give them one and make sure everybody goes out and votes.
