Voting is a fundamental aspect of the democratic process. Despite its significance, most college-aged students, 18-29, do not actively exercise their civic right. In fact, people in this age bracket have had the lowest voter turnout rate since 1964 based on Statistica research. America is at a crossroads in its current political state. It is about time that more young voters head to the polls and help elect leaders who can improve the nation before it is too late.
The majority of college students claim that their votes are unimportant, when in reality they have the opportunity to shape the political agenda. Politicians often advocate for ideas that are supported by their highest voter demographics.
Therefore, candidates will be less likely to cater to students’ expectations if they do not vote in large blocs, like the older generations. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a roughly 20% disparity existed between millennial and baby boomer voters during the 2020 presidential election. To get results you must be heard, but first you have to speak up in order to be heard.
With that being said, students are able to keep politicians accountable for their speech and actions by voting. If representatives run for reelection and have not fulfilled their campaign promises, we have the power to vote them out.
This shows that we are not pleased with the politicians’ efforts and desire more effective lawmakers. If an elected official is removed from office, chances are the constituents were dissatisfied with the person’s accomplishments or lack thereof.
Casting a ballot also influences younger generations and helps determine the future standing of our country. The college students and younger generations will be the ones living most of their lives in America’s future. Do we want baby boomers determining the political climate of our nation’s future, long after they are gone?
We, as students, hold the power to preserve America for years to come, especially since our generation began outnumbering the older ones in 2019. It is our social responsibility to act as role models to younger individuals, who can not vote, by showing them the importance of our country’s democratic process; and therefore, encouraging them to vote once legal.
Overall, while students possess the power to vote and influence the future of America, it is essential that they become informed voters first. They need to conduct research about a candidate’s values, supported positions, past political experiences, and future goals before exercising their right to vote so that the wrong politicians do not end up in public office.
If we are uninformed, we become ignorant. Therefore, research, vote, and make a difference this upcoming election season because our nation is counting on us to preserve the future.
Kerri Hoover
Kerri Hoover is in her third year working on the Eagle Eye staff and currently serves as the President and Editor-in-Chief. As a Lock Haven University senior, she majors in Communication with a triple-concentration focus in Advertising & Public Relations, Electronic Media, and Journalism. With her versatile skill set, Kerri hopes to pursue a career working as a social media content creator, journalist, or video editor. On the rare occasion Kerri isn’t working in the newsroom, she can be found hanging out with her friends, working at the PUB, or creating content for the LHU Media and Journalism Department.
