since 2020. Photo courtesy of Creative Commons
After the presidential debate on Tuesday, Sept. 10, there is one thing students should be concerned about – voting.
In 2020, youth voting was at an all time high, with 54% of individuals aged 18 to 29 voting in a presidential election. However, according to a 2024 poll done by the Harvard Kennedy School, only 49% of youth “definitely” planned to vote, a five percent decrease from 2020.
While youth may abstain from voting in this election because they feel it will not make a difference or because they do not favor either candidate, their vote actually means a lot more than they think.
The electoral system can discourage voter participation, especially for voters who are in the political minority of their states.
But, voting plays a critical role in civic engagement. It allows citizens to be fully invested in the future of the country. According to NonprofitVOTE, an organization which equips nonprofits to engage voters, “Active civic engagement, including voting, contributes to the health and economic vitality of local communities. People who vote are more likely to connect with neighbors, talk to elected officials, and engage civically in other ways.”
Voting gives students an opportunity to weigh in on policies that directly impact them, such as student debt relief. Beyond personal stakes, voting gives citizens the power to advocate for broader social issues like climate action, racial justice, and education reform. Their participation can shift election outcomes toward policies that prioritize fairness and opportunity for everyone. It is not just about self interest, but about contributing to a future where all generations thrive.
While not as sensationalized as national elections, voting in local elections is also crucial for shaping the direction of a community. In San Francisco, the mayor plays a significant role in addressing key issues such as housing affordability, homelessness, public safety, and transportation—issues that directly impact the lives of residents. By voting, citizens influence how the city prioritizes and manages these challenges, ensuring that local leadership reflects the community’s values and concerns.
Voting is a powerful tool that allows you to shape the policies and leadership that affect your daily life and future. Whether at the local or national level, your vote gives you a voice in key issues, from healthcare and education to social justice and economic growth. By participating, you help ensure that your needs and values are represented in government decisions. Voting is not just a right, but a responsibility to contribute to a better future.
Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Premmer, Chief Copy Editor: Sophia McCrackin, Managing Editor: Jordan DelFiugo, Opinion Editor: Dakota Duran, Scene Editor: Elina Graham
