“United We Vote:” BUTV’s Special Election Coverage to air Nov. 6 at 7:30 PM ET

“United We Vote” reporters at the desk in Studio West. *Photo Courtesy of Yuka Masamura.*

By Grace Choi

Boston University News Service

On Nov. 6, BUTV will broadcast a special election episode, “United We Vote,” at 7:30 PM ET. This show brings together student producers, reporters and experts for a comprehensive look at the presidential election. Hosted by Boston University students, the program promises to deliver a blend of live analysis, interviews, on-the-ground reporting and real-time polling updates.

A dynamic panel of experts will join “United We Vote” to share their perspectives on the election’s pivotal issues. The episode will feature U.S. Cybersecurity Director Jen Easterly and Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), who was also Hillary Clinton’s former running mate in 2016. Sonal Shah, CEO of The Texas Tribune and former policy director for Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 campaign, and Dr. Robert Shapiro, a political science professor at Columbia University, will also lend her insights. Shifting over to the broadcasting world, Fox News Political Reporter and BUTV alum Brooke Singman and CNN Senior Legal Analyst Elie Honig will share their perspectives and experiences.

“This is a life changing experience for me as a budding political reporter,” Executive Producer Sydney Topf said. “I get to work alongside an amazing team of journalists to report on a historic election.”

With an emphasis on student voices and insights, “United We Vote” aims to offer a fresh, generational perspective on an election that will shape the future.

“The opportunity to be on this great team has been such an invaluable experience,” said George Lehman, an associate producer. “One great experience I had during the show was being able to travel to New Hampshire to cover the canvassing event for Harris.”

The show will feature in-depth discussions on key issues affecting young voters, including absentee voting and the significance of the Divine Nine — the historically Black fraternities and sororities formed in the early 20th Century that hold a significant presence in Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign. By tackling these issues, “United We Vote” aims to go beyond traditional election coverage, focusing on topics that resonate with the younger generation.

“Putting all our energy and election stress into something positive and productive, such as creating an entire BUTV special from the ground up, has been such an inspiring experience,” said Sophia Falbo, another Executive Producer.

In addition to expert insights, the episode will include live student-led coverage from local polling stations and voter interviews, providing a snapshot of real-time public sentiment. Man-on-the-street conversations with voters and reactions from the student body will give audiences a window into the election from a grassroots perspective, aiming to capture the pulse of Gen Z voters on election night.

With “United We Vote,” BUTV aims to inspire young voters to participate actively in the democratic process, both as viewers and as voices within the national conversation. As election night approaches, the team is gearing up to deliver a memorable night of coverage that highlights both the stakes of the election and the unique insights that young voters bring to the table.

“The hope is that this project can spark a sense of community and hope in our viewers during such a critical time,” says Executive Producer Addison Cummings.

How to watch “United We Vote” on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 7:30 p.m. ET: