Should the voting age be lowered?

Although the topic of lowering the voting age has been swept to the sidelines, it seems to be a much more prominent topic this election year. If 16-year-olds could vote, the repercussions could only be outstanding and could result in voter turnout that has never been seen before.

The 26th Amendment gives citizens the right to vote at any age over 18. This was passed during the 1960s. As young men were being carted away by the dozens to war, they also decided to protest their right to vote, along with fighting for their country. This argument has resurfaced again, but now with the question if younger teens are mature and prepared to contribute to the future of America.

Younger people have become more politically involved, especially during quarantine, primarily, teens who are yet to legally vote. Civics and economics are both subjects teens are required to take, most before they turn 16. Along with this generation learning about politics and economics through school, discussions occur outside of school. Even between families at home.

Social media has become a dominant platform for younger people to share their beliefs and to express themselves politically. Likewise, most teens have jobs and have their licenses, which is already directly contributing to society. People may be concerned about the true maturity and amount of education a teen has to vote, but that could be said about any age group.

Being educated on politics is important, but this also regards voter turnout. Although numbers from 2016 show that the younger generation’s turnout proved low, this does not mean that there is no capability of unprecedented turnout. A large group of teens have shown, especially through their own respective medias, that they would be ecstatic to vote if given the opportunity.

This generation is capable, talented, and they continue setting new boundaries for themselves and their communities. Many teens understand the importance of voting, and should be given the opportunity to have a political voice along with anyone else.