America is a country based on freedom and equality. With those rights, we assume that our best interest will be protected and upheld by who is elected to office, whether it be local legislation, congress or presidential. For those people to be selected, we the people are needed to have an opinion on what we want for our country and what type of morals the people who are elected have.
The turnout rate of voters for the presidential race dropped below 60 percent in 2012 for the overall populace. Within parameters of young adults who vote, under 20 percent use that right.
Politics are not a high enough priority in the minds of young adults. Of course, there are many well-versed young adults who are passionate about politics and keep updated on candidates and news, but the other 80 percent may not know enough to make the most educated decision.
Many people, me included, are very passionate about certain political issues and know exactly how you feel about something. Take gun control, for example. I am sure almost everyone has an opinion on whether or not we have the right to arm ourselves. Some people believe that it is our right to be able to protect ourselves, loved ones and property, while others believe that gun violence has clearly escalated over the years and is doing harm to the public making it necessary to have tighter gun restrictions. Those kinds of opinions are far and wide, changing among everyone you ask.
But what about topics such as union organization? Do you know which political parties are pro-union and which are against? Or how about a more well-known topic such as stance on taxation? Of course everyone has an opinion based on their life experiences and is entitled to their opinions, but what about the people who do not know about these issues that our representatives are responsible for?
If less than 20 percent of young people are not educated on political issues, or not going to vote who will be contributing to the consensus in 20 years when we are no longer young people.
It is not uncommon for children to follow their parents belief system, including political views. This is only problematic when children say they agree with one viewpoint solely because of what their parents have said. This can lead to kids growing up thinking they are republican for example, and deciding that they are only going to vote republican when in fact maybe their belief system matches more with a different candidate of a different political party.
Politics are not easy to understand which is why many young adults turn away from voting lines since they are unsure of who the right person for the job is. After all, with hundreds of opinions and beliefs per candidate, how is it possible to sift though that all? No, it is not easy, and yes there are many things to think about when involving yourself in politics. But, it is important to remember though that voting is a privilege, and the future of America affects us all weather you vote or not, so why would you not want to partake in politics,
Give yourself a voice.
