There comes a time in every teenager’s life when important decisions must be made. These decisions can range from deciding to get a job to choosing which college to attend. These decisions often have a large impact on one’s lifestyle and future. One of the most impactful decisions that we can make as United States citizens is choosing to vote in presidential elections.
High school students are notorious for having the lowest voter turnout rates. In the 2016 United States presidential election, less than half of Americans of age 18 to 29 voted. This could be due to a lack of proper voter education. Public schools are especially known for lacking advocacy, resulting in underwhelming engagement in democracy. Fortunately, in more recent years, there has been an increase in programs dedicated to encouraging young adults to take an interest in the matter. TCG Impact’s 2023 Democracy Tour engaged thousands of Atlanta Public School students in entertaining music and trivia related to the voting process.
What many Georgia high school students are unaware of is that they can register to vote at 17 and a half years old. By registering to vote, high school students are introduced to the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. It is made clear that their voices and opinions matter. Being registered to vote also encourages high school students to become informed decision-makers. It is a great opportunity to learn both how the government functions and what contributes to its thriving. Instilling the importance of democratic engagement in young citizens will ensure that future generations take the practice seriously.
Presidential elections in the United States take place every four years on the first Tuesday of November. The next presidential election is scheduled for 5 November of this year. There are registration deadlines put in place to organize the process. Typically, eligible registrants must register to vote around 29 days before the election. Procrastinating the completion of voter registration is common, which is why it is important that the registration is completed as quickly as possible.
Registering to vote is beneficial for high school students, as well as for the United States. It encourages students to become informed decision-makers and to fight for what they believe in. The voices of the youth are powerful and can make a difference. If you are eligible, register to vote today either online or via mail.
