As the upcoming presidential election approaches, many seniors at Eaton High School are finding themselves at an important milestone in their adult life- the opportunity to vote for the first time. During this pivotal transition into adulthood, embracing civic responsibility becomes essential. Registering to vote gives young people the opportunity to shape our community.

According to the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office, the number of registered voters aged 18-24 has been steadily increasing in recent years. In the 2020 general election, almost 50% of eligible 18-year-olds in Colorado were registered to vote, showing a 11% increase from 2016. This surge in registration shows that there is a growing interest and engagement of young people in the political process.

At Eaton High School, certain classes like Civics, and Contemporary issues prepare students to get involved in politics. ¨Last year I took contemporary issues. Even though I wasn’t old enough to vote, we talked about it and had a voting party for the people who were old enough,¨ said Kennedy Scudder (24). ¨I’m going to vote now that I’m old enough this year¨ 

The perspectives of high school students deserve to be heard. Registering to vote is essential because it gives Americans a chance to have a direct impact on policies and laws affecting their daily lives. From local initiatives to national elections, votes shape the agenda of lawmakers and influence their decisions. Participating in the democratic process brings positive change and ensures that concerns are addressed.

The voting statistics for 18-year-olds in Colorado reflect the growing enthusiasm and engagement of young voters. Youth voting is essential for a healthy and inclusive democracy, as it ensures representation, influences policy decisions, and fosters innovation. Encouraging and supporting youth voting is vital for the long-term well-being of our society. By empowering young voters, our democracy will reflect the needs and aspirations of all its citizens.