As 2024 comes to a close, the presidential election is just beginning. This year’s election is expected to be one of the most controversial in recent history. Americans must understand the importance of contributing to the democratic process with their vote. When someone asks if you are voting, your answer should be, “Yes.”
In the 2020 election, only 74% of registered voters in Ohio participated, a level of engagement much lower than it should be. For the 2024 election, 100% of registered voters should get involved.
At Lakewood High School, AP Government teacher Ron Lewis discusses how one person’s vote can impact an entire election. “In a smaller election, when you only have a limited number of people voting, your one vote most certainly matters,” he explains.
Your voice matters, no matter your age. Even if you are not of voting age, you can still participate in elections. Young people can encourage their families to vote.“Take that voter registration form home and encourage your family to register. But if there’s someone in your family that does not want to be a part of voting, state some reasons why their vote matters to the election,” said Mr. Lewis.
Maybe you’re questioning why you can vote as an 18-year-old. Kayen Bruce, a senior at Lakewood High, offers her opinion on why young adults are ready to participate in elections.
“I think that 18-year-olds and older should have the right to vote because you are at the age where you are fully aware of political problems in the world, and you also get a say in what happens. You’re officially an adult, so the opportunity to vote is wonderful.”
As kids, we grew up believing that voting was a distant responsibility, something we didn’t need to worry about. Regardless of who we are, participation is important at all ages.
Social media plays a role in encouraging election participation by allowing individuals to share their voting experiences, which can motivate others to do the same. Each day, readers consume various information about the election, making it important to stay well-informed. Sharing your voting experience highlights the significance of participating in elections.
“So you want to be super informed. Always have those critical thinking terms with you. We need to be great consumers of information” Lewis continued.
“Researching voting can be kind of stressful because you need to be informed on both sides of the election. Although I may not support one side, knowing facts about it can help you contrast from the side you do support, and also those facts can describe many ways on how your vote is important too,” added Bruce.
As we approach the 2024 presidential election, let us remember that every voice counts. Your vote is not just your voice; it’s a powerful tool for change—so make it heard!
