In less than 50 days, American citizens over the age of eighteen we will be asked to go to the voting polls and elect the next president of the United States. While many of us are eager to get our voices heard, a large group of people aged 18-31 will electively opt out of voting. According to a ABC News/Fusion poll only 54% of registered 18-31 year olds actually vote, compared to 32-64 year olds (85%) and 65+ (with 94%). Here are 3 important reasons, regardless of political affiliation, that you should register and vote this year:
1. Many people fought for your right to vote. It has been less than a hundred years since women were given the right to vote, please don’t take it for granted.
2. The issues on this ballot specifically affect your next four years. As you leave college, start paying for health care, become employed, get married and rent a home, you might want to have a say in certain policies.
3. It’s hypocritical to complain about the president for the next four years, if you didn’t participate in the selection. Also, if you don’t like either candidate you can still go, leave that blank and vote on other issues!
The last day to register online is October 24. Voting day is November 8!