Democracy needs young voices

It's time to expand voting rights to 16- and 17-year-olds. Our democracy will be stronger for it.

Tell Congress: It's time to expand voting rights to 16- and 17-year-olds. Our democracy will be stronger for it. >> SIGN THE PETITION Pamela, when I was 17, I spent every moment that I wasn't in school or working following the 2020 election like my future depended on it – because it did. I researched candidates, debated policies, and encouraged my family to do the same. But despite all my hard work, I couldn't cast a ballot myself. And I wasn't alone. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds drive, work, and even pay taxes. They're the next generation of leaders. They shoulder responsibilities and shape our communities – but are still denied a say in the decisions that affect their everyday lives. It's time to lower the voting age. Democracies around the world are embracing this idea, with the UK preparing to lower its voting age to 16 by the next general election. [1] They're recognizing that engaging young voters is key to a strong, healthy democracy – and it's time that the US does the same. The future belongs to the next generation – so let's give them a voice in shaping it. Add your name to demand action to lower the voting age to 16 >> SIGN THE PETITION Pamela, when young people are empowered early, they're more likely to be lifelong voters. [2] Fostering civic engagement in teenagers builds lifelong habits of participation, strengthens our communities, and ensures that the next generation has a say in the policies that shape their lives. From gun safety to climate change to the cost of college, young people are directly and deeply impacted by today's public policy decisions. Including younger voters in our democracy provides them with a tool to hold elected officials accountable for their actions – and inaction. And some jurisdictions already recognize this – like Newark, New Jersey, where 16- and 17-year-olds are able to vote in their school board elections. [3] The result? Increased voter turnout and engagement – with no downsides. Newark is far from alone – 20 states and D.C. allow 16-year-olds to pre-register to vote – laying the groundwork for lifelong participation. Lowering the voting age isn't radical – Common Cause got it lowered from 21 to 18 with a constitutional amendment in 1971. When young people have a stake in elections, they show up, speak out, and help create a government that works better for everyone. It's time to follow the UK's lead. Let's expand access to the ballot and ensure that young people have the power to shape the future they're inheriting. Thanks for all you do, The team at Common Cause [1] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c628ep4j5kno [2] https://www.commoncause.org/emerging-power/work/lva/ [3] https://www.votebeat.org/2025/06/23/youth-vote-newark-new-jersey-school-board-election/ Common Cause is a leader in fights that matter at the local, state, and national level. Your support helps us fight special interests, hold elected officials accountable, and build a better democracy for all Americans. DONATE Interested in volunteering with our Action Team? Sign up here. 805 15th Street, NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20005 202.833.1200 https://commoncause.org Common Cause's work to defend and strengthen our democracy is powered by members like you. You can use this link to unsubscribe or let us know you'd like to receive fewer emails from us.

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