As we open the first issue of Verde’s 26th volume, we find ourselves at a crossroads in history, shaped by the upcoming presidential election. As shown by our cover, by artist Sasha Kapadia, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, and former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, stand back-to-back, highlighting their polarizing opinions across various topics. 

Both candidates are covered extensively throughout the media, and this edition of Verde is no exception. In the culture story “Campaigns and coconuts,” features editor Kensie Pao and staff writer Yardenne Sternheim investigate the social media campaigns of both candidates and the noticeable impact that Gen-Z trends have had on political campaigns. In an opinion piece, “A strange selection,” perspectives editor Zachary Crystal describes Harris’ route to the nomination as undemocratic. 

Local politics also take the spotlight, with news editor Niaz Alasti and perspectives editor Zachary Crystal covering the District 16 congressional race between Sam Liccardo and Evan Low. In “Meeting the candidates,” written by assistant sports editor Stefan Erikson and profiles editor Sophie Mies, readers can learn about the Palo Alto Unified School District’s Board of Education candidates, their priorities, what led them to Palo Alto and more. 

This election is unprecedented, with the first woman of color to run for president and the first convicted felon to run for president. However, this time is not just defined by politics, as trailblazers shape the Palo Alto community. In “A new way to ball” by launch editor Lilia Kuzmicheva and staff writer Julie Yang, Palo Alto High School’s athletic program features its first ever girls flag football team. 

As we contemplate the eventful elections ahead, it’s apparent that the future is now, and we play a key role in shaping it. 

On the cover

The Future is Now — Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand back to back in a digital drawing by artist Sasha Kapadia. With a pivotal election ahead, the cover symbolizes the stark contrast between the candidates’ political ideologies and leadership styles. The title, “Crossroads,” signifies the importance of this election: we may end up with our first female president, one that has created a lot of buzz around politics recently, or we may reelect one of the most controversial presidents America has seen. It’s up to the public to decide.