Over the years voter population among ages 18-24 has significantly declined. In the 2000 presidential election the percentage of voters was 32.3%. There are many ways that candidates are trying to get voters out. They are trying to reach the youth with issues regarding them, yet the numbers are still down. In our research we will survey students to get their opinions and views on voting within this group.
In the early 70's the voting age was lowered from 21 to 18. by lowering the minimum age this gave more young adults a right to vote. Since then over the year participation in voting has declined. This has become a main issue of candidates. Many advertisements have been geared to recruit the young vote. One program is "Rock the Vote" which encourages voter registration and turnout. Rock the Vote engages youth in the political process by incorporating the entertainment community and youth culture into its activities. From actors to musicians, comedians to athletes, Rock the Vote harnesses cutting-edge trends and pop culture to make political participation cool (Rock the Vote website). Even with successful programs as this voter registration is still down. The National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) conducted a national, non-partisan study in 1998, which revealed that young people ages 18-24 are dropping out of the electoral process for a number of reasons: they feel ignored by politicians, they feel their vote really doesn't count, and they say they don't get the kind of information they need to vote (New Millennium Project). Demographics also play an integral part as well as age. Race, gender, religion and social status also are accounted in these studies.
In conclusion, voting in America is the ground for our governmental structure. Voting gets the voices of many heard and expressed by getting the best candidate for the job. There is a strong need for young adult to vote because this is our future. Our ...