CROSS POINT: Young people are already shaping our democracy and should be able to vote
Your vote represents your choice, your views, and the selection of a representative that speaks to the needs and values of your community.
Each year younger people are getting more engaged by leading protests, advocating on the most pressing issues and staking their claim in the nation’s future.
The issue of lowering the voting age has resurfaced recently as House Democrats have attempted to pass legislation that would lower the voting age to 16. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has even supported this idea.
Since 2013, 13 states have proposed bills to lower the voting age. This is great news.
Today’s high school students are leading the way in advocacy and driving the political conversation.
Youth movements in gun violence prevention, criminal justice reform, and climate change are growing in impact and are forcing those in power to listen and act.
What better way to channel this energy than voting? Youth are affected by local political issues as much as adults.
A person who votes in the first election they are eligible for is likely to continue voting consistently, the earlier the start, the more consistent the voting practice.
Let’s get to the point: People are already marching in the streets, joining online campaigns, testifying before Congress, and leading rallies on the most vital policy issues of our time.
Allowing them to vote now would only increase their stake in the Democratic process.
