In 2024, the presidential primary election saw a voter turnout of 19.07%. This is the lowest it has been in 50 years. Some people do not even know what a primary election is. Even fewer are aware that certain 17 year olds are eligible to vote. It is important to vote in all elections, as that is what makes our country a democracy, but the right to vote at 17 is also an important privilege that more teenagers should take advantage of.
It is widely acknowledged that 18 is the voting age; however, there is a caveat. If you are 17 years old on the date of your state’s primary election, and you will be 18 during the general election, you may vote in the primary election. Not only is this interesting, but it is important.
First, what is a primary election? It is an election that typically takes place in March, where voters decide who should run from each party in the general election later that year. This happens for both presidential and midterm elections. The midterm elections will take place during November this year, so ballots will focus on every position but the President and Vice President roles. The primary election which decides who will be running in those midterms takes place on March 17 in Illinois.
One of the most important values in The U.S. is democracy. It was a system set up and praised by our founding fathers, and deserves to be just as treasured today. Without democracy, The United States would not be any different from the nation we separated from during the American Revolution. Voting is not just a right, but a privilege. Voter turnout has dwindled significantly in recent years. Many people believe that their vote does not matter as it is only one of many, but this is not true. Voting is the way that we can choose legislators who support our beliefs and advocate for them. Voting assures that our voice as the people is heard, especially in the midterm elections, as you can cast your votes to make sure there are candidates that represent your views in the general election.
Voting for candidates also encourages voters to look into candidates. Looking into them can help citizens stay informed in local or national issues. Politicians’ stances on topics can encourage voters to do their own research, making them more in tune with current events. This is important during such an active political time in history. Almost every day there are new political events happening, and while there is not an expectation for everyone to be in tune with every issue, I strongly believe that people should have at least a few issues they are passionate about.
Many people describe today’s political climate as aggressive or divisive. While this may be true, it should not discourage people from doing their own political research or being involved with politics. It is our duty as U.S. citizens to be informed about our country and the incidents happening every day. Whether you’re passionate about huge issues that affect millions or small issues that only affect your town, both are equally important. Finding an issue that your beliefs align with is powerful in a way. And one of the most effective ways to protect and strengthen that power is voting. Voting in local elections, in primary elections, in general elections and in presidential elections are all ways to stay involved with our country, and be a patriotic citizen. Being patriotic is not just about owning an American flag, it’s about being civically engaged, educated, and exercising your right to vote.
