As the 2026 midterm elections approach, young voters are stepping up like never before. From viral TikToks to student-led voter drives, Gen Z and millennials are proving that politics isn’t just for older generations.
The next big wave of change might not come from Washington, but from millions of young people showing up to vote.
Voters under 35 now make up nearly one-third of the U.S. electorate. That means millions of people are deciding who represents their values, from climate action and student debt relief to reproductive rights and affordable housing.
The decisions made in 2026 will directly affect this generation’s future, and many are realizing just how much power their votes hold.
Why Young Voters Matter
Young voters have long been called the “sleeping giant” of American politics, and that giant is finally waking up. Recent elections have shown record-high turnout among voters aged 18 to 29.
This rise signals a shift in how younger generations view civic engagement, not as an obligation, but as a form of self-expression and empowerment.
Gen Z, in particular, is the most diverse and digitally connected generation in history. They’re used to researching online, verifying information, and using social media as a platform to demand accountability.
Whether it’s sharing a post about voter deadlines or discussing political issues with friends, young voters are turning awareness into action.
What Young Voters Care About
Unlike previous generations, young voters are less tied to party labels and more focused on issues that directly affect their everyday lives. Key concerns include the cost of living, access to education, mental health resources, gun safety, and climate change.
These topics dominate conversations both online and off, shaping how and why young people choose to vote.
For many, politics feels personal. When rent, tuition, and healthcare costs continue to rise, voting becomes more than a civic duty. It’s a way to fight for stability and fairness. And while young people may not always agree on the solutions, they’re united in wanting their voices heard.
The Power of Social Media & Activism
Social media has completely transformed how young people engage with politics. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X are now hubs for civic education, activism, and debate. From short videos explaining ballot measures to digital campaigns encouraging voter registration, social media has become a major tool for mobilization and awareness.
However, this digital power also comes with challenges. Misinformation spreads quickly, and online activism can sometimes feel performative. That’s why many young people are bridging the gap between online engagement and real-world action, volunteering at polling stations, attending rallies, or hosting discussions in their communities.
Why Your Vote Matters
It’s easy to feel like one vote doesn’t matter, but in many elections, especially local and state ones, it absolutely does. Young voters now have the numbers to shape not just presidential races, but also the policies that impact everyday life.
When young people vote, they influence education funding, environmental laws, healthcare access, and the future of democracy itself.
So, whether you’re voting for the first time or the fifth, remember that your vote isn’t just a box to check. It’s your voice, your power, and your future. Change doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when people show up.
Register, research, and show up on Election Day. Every ballot counts, every voice matters. Follow @HerCampus for more stories that empower young voters to make a difference.