As I walked out of my local library that sunny Tuesday, I was astounded with just how easy registering to vote was. I had walked in, filled out a form that took only five minutes, turned it in and that was it. Only a week later, was able to go online and request my absentee ballot form, which again only took five minutes There has to be another reason then, another reason that would explain why youth voter turnout is historical low.
According to the US Census, in the 2012 Presidential election, it was estimated only 38 percent of 18-24 year olds voted, a decrease from the 2008 elections.
Our generation is becoming much more aware and involved with politics. That is awesome, because that is going to change the rest of our lives. But we need to do more. Being politically involved is more than talking about the candidates with our friends, posting rants on Facebook or attending rallies to get a new profile picture. Those things can be all well and good, but they will be forgotten. What won't be forgotten though is who is sitting in office next year.
What is amazing about our country is we have a say in who that person is. That is not a responsibility that anyone should be taking lightly. So listen to the rallies. Have intelligent conversations with your peers and hear their world views. Gather as much information as you can about the candidates. But don't just stop there.
Figure out what you need to do to register to vote. It can be as easy as googling it! Ask your roommate! Ask your parents! Ask a stranger on the street! Ask anyone! Go online and find places to go and vote. Figure out if you will need to early vote or register an absentee ballot, especially if you go to college or live out of state from where you are registered to vote. Just do what you need to do to have a say in who will make decisions that are going to have a huge impact on your future.
