Miranda Vogel

Why should we vote? This is a question that often crosses the minds of many young Americans as they reach the age of 18. The majority, burdened with the challenges of classes, part-time jobs, sports and active social lives, find it challenging to navigate the logistics of voting for the first time.

With so much already on their plates, young adults question the need to add one more responsibility to their lives. However, what most teenagers fail to realize is the profound impact their vote can have and how their choice, or lack thereof, influences their own lives.

Many young people cite the belief that their vote doesn’t count as their reason for abstaining from elections. Yet, the truth is that young voters constitute a significant portion of the voting population, making them a strong political force. Young adults possess a remarkable ability to shape the political landscape when they actively participate in voting.

A recent example of their influence occurred earlier this year when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal protections for abortion rights in the Dobbs decision. Young voters spearheaded the outrage and subsequent action at the ballot box, leading to Kansas voters rejecting a measure that would have stripped protections for abortion rights from their state’s constitution. Issues central to young adults’ lives and concerns are increasingly at the forefront of today’s political debates, underscoring the importance of their participation in the voting process so they can help make decisions which directly impact them.

Another common misconception among young adults is the belief that their vote won’t significantly impact their lives. But why should they vote, some ask?

Sahara Williams, a Hartford alumni, emphasizes the importance of recognizing that numerous smaller elections hold immense significance and can directly affect daily life. While most students associate voting with the high-stakes presidential election, where two major party candidates contend with millions of votes at stake, there are many other actions where young adult votes hold even more weight.

There are three primary types of elections: general, primary and special. These elections encompass local, state and federal levels, including the election of influential roles in each community, such as county and city officials, judges and magisterial district judges. These elections wield substantial influence over young adults’ lives, impacting issues like college tuition reform and federal job programs. Furthermore, with fewer votes cast in these elections, the power of young adult votes collectively magnifies.

In conclusion, young adults should vote because they possess a real say in how our government operates and in issues that profoundly affect their lives. Voting allows you to make a tangible difference, rectifying injustices you witness in the world and policies you disagree with. As highlighted by JCU, “young people (18-29 year olds) make up 21% of the voting eligible population in the U.S… [which means] at least 80 electoral votes depend on youth.”

We have the potent ability to effect change. Vote to shape the future you want to see. It all begins with you.