Today’s youth is crucial to the future of America. Voting is a critical way to steer this country into a better direction. Unfortunately, though, many teens feel as if the world is hopeless, or that their voices do not matter. With the rise of political division and concerns about authoritarian government actions, it may feel like young voices do not matter; however, choosing not to vote only allows these problems to continue.
Youth voting turnout was 47%, opposed to adults with 66% in the 2024 general election, according to the Pew Research Center, even way back in 2016 the 18-29 demographic had much lower voting rates. The youth that did not vote stated their reason was either they did not have enough insight to make an informed decision, were occupied, or lacked the initiative register and vote. This trend has stayed consistent throughout the years, becoming a barrier to young voters and their voice in politics.
From 2020 to 2024, a rising number of youth voters refused to participate in politics, according to the Electoral Knowledge Network. This is due to young people feeling a disconnect from the political candidates and many young Americans feel as if voting is not an effective tool for political change.
Young teens and adults are one of the most influential demographics in the United States. Social media and advertisements heavily target people ages from 18-40 because of their high screentime on social media platforms such as Instagram, Youtube, Tiktok, Reddit, etc. If companies are catering to young people, that means our viewership and engagement is strong enough to shape the markets, culture, and it is certainly powerful enough to shape elections and the future as well. Youth voices are essential in shaping this country’s politics, which is why it is essential that young voters get their voices heard. Young voters should also try to get their information from unbiased sources to make sure their voices are not being manipulated by sources that lean to a particular side.
When young people vote, it gives society a chance to push back against unjust policies and make society more equilibrated. In the 2004 and 2008 general elections youth voters largely voted for the Democratic party. Over 66% of voters were under 30, according to the Pew Research Center, and their votes helped spark support for Obama, electing him for presidency twice.
With more votes, young citizens can carve out a path for other activists to speak up. With the unjust violence that I.C.E. is displaying in Minnesota and other states, fresh voices have the power to speak up regarding the injustices through electing representatives in Congress who can potentially combat these issues. Bad Bunny, Billie Eillish, Victor Wembenyama and other young celebrities have used their voices and platforms to push back against injustices, and voting can have just as big an impact.
Sixteen year olds can pre register to vote in order to participate in the political process when they are of age. Participating to vote can help overturn corrupt policies and shape the world. Every vote matters.
