College students need to vote in this election
Given that we’re the next generation that will be affected by the voting turnout in this upcoming presidential election, college students need to vote. Believable or not, every vote counts and makes a difference.
Probably the most important reason that college students should vote is because over the past few years, younger people have not participated during elections, according to a 2014 report.
“One vote won’t make a difference” is a common excuse. According to Robbie Gennet of the Huffington Post, “voter turnout at its best doesn’t even hit two-thirds of the eligible U.S. population of presidential elections and barely clears 40 percent during midterms.”
It’s clear, then, that this excuse should be disregarded.
According to NBC news, “Millennials—young adults ages 18 to 33—are the most racially diverse generation in U.S. history.” Consequently, this reflects a diverse collection of government and political opinions. Additionally, this generation is opinionated on many issues, including same-sex marriage, the legalization of marijuana, foreign policy and abortion.
No matter which side of the political spectrum candidates fall on, college students play a crucial role in deciding who will be the best leader. Because Millennials are racially diverse and more open to discussing issues than previous generations, more of them should have the drive to vote and choose which platform they support. During the upcoming caucuses and primary election debates college students should pay close attention to the candidates’ platforms.
One issue in particular that should influence college students to vote is school loans and post-graduation debt.
Junior Josh Arens expressed concerns with how critical it is that college students take part in the election, especially because this upcoming one is “historical.”
“I think it’s really important because there (are) a lot of issues at stake, especially in this next election,” he said.
The cost of college now and in the future should be a big concern for all college students who have some debt to pay. Voting for the right candidate will not only have a tremendous effect on college students, but future generations as well.
“We need to put in a candidate that’s going to address this huge issue that really weighs students down,” Arens said. “They’re leaving school with mountains of debt.”
According to study.com, politicians are “more likely to support initiatives that are popular among groups with the highest voter turnout.” The Millennial generation has a great opportunity to take advantage of this idea.
So, this election season, think about the candidates, think about their platforms and, most importantly, think about the rights of college students and how your vote can impact the nation.
