By Marissa Kleckner
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
Voters under the age of 25 are the least likely age demographic to vote but have a massive stake in many policies and issues. Even though young voters have so much at stake, lack of engagement in the democratic process is not new. Since 1964, no more than 50% of eligible Americans under the age of 25 have voted in presidential elections.
Young voters are affected by many crucial policies, such as education, housing, and healthcare, which appear on most state ballots and disproportionately affect voters between the ages of 18 and 25.
Dr. John McTague a researcher and political science professor at Towson University attributes this to the challenges of voting in America, the lack of engagement by young people in all social institutions, and more recently the difference in demographics between young and older Americans.
“It might be that the older generation of politicians, disproportionately white men over-represented in American politics, simply don’t resonate with such a distinct demographic profile,” said McTague.
This idea is echoed by young Americans. Over two-thirds of young Americans say that they do not trust either political party. This distrust has driven passionate young voters away from the pools.
“I think the average age of politicians is a major turnoff for young voters,” said Aidan Delahanty (21). “Identity politics plays an important role in our government today, so if young voters can’t relate to politicians, they won’t see a reason to vote for them.”
To counteract this trend, many celebrities have begun to endorse candidates. Most recently, Taylor Swift has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris via her social media, which has generated interest among younger voters.
“I do feel her endorsement was able to help people find resources to register to vote as well as remind people to go out and vote,” said Sara Parksvold (20). “Swift’s real impact came when she announced who she was voting for in the Trump-Biden election in 2020. It was the first time she ever shared her political opinion, and I feel that it may have impacted people’s decision to vote differently. However, in my case, it did not change my stance or opinion.”
Using social media is not unique to Swift. Many candidates have turned to social media to meet young voters ‘where they are,’ realizing that young voters want their information in smaller doses and in real time.
Candidates and society as a whole are pushing for young voter engagement. While there is still a way to go, steps to support and encourage young people to engage in the democratic process are beginning to be seen.