The 2018 midterms have the potential to be historic for youth political participation, with young people receiving campaign outreach, paying attention, and intending to vote at unusually high levels (34% “extremely likely” to vote) that come close to the levels of engagement seen in the 2016 presidential election. Young people who report being actively engaged with the post-Parkland movement for gun violence prevention are even more likely (50%) to say that they’re extremely likely to v...| circle.tufts.edu
As the COVID-19 pandemic made social distancing the norm across the country, much of civic life—from political campaigning to voter registration drives—has shifted to virtual environments. This renewed emphasis on online civic spaces could increase engagement among young people, both through outreach from political parties and campaigns and through youth-led media creation.| circle.tufts.edu
Young people in America have been uniquely and disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in ways that may both hinder and reshape their participation in civic life. Most K-12 schools and universities have either closed or transitioned to an online learning format, which has usually entailed reduced in-classroom time and diminished educational opportunities. Unemployment rates for young people in the labor force are the highest ever recorded.| circle.tufts.edu
In recent election cycles, companies have made increasingly stronger commitments to promoting informed youth voting using their digital media platforms, storefronts, and apps. Together, they have achieved extraordinary scale and an impressive capacity to reach youth —especially those who are not typically reached by traditional campaign outreach.| circle.tufts.edu
Young voters in Georgia—especially Black youth—had a major influence on the Democratic victories in the January 2021 Senate runoffs that decided control of the U.S. Senate.| circle.tufts.edu
Preparing for this November’s elections has looked different than in the past. Yes, as always, voters must be registered, educated, and encouraged to participate; campaign messages must be shared; equipment and procedures must be readied for processing ballots.| circle.tufts.edu
The 2018 election was the most expensive midterm in modern history, costing $5 billion. While these funds go to many expenses, a significant portion is spent by groups engaging in voter registration, education, and mobilization. The extent to which this voter outreach focuses on youth, many of whom may be newly eligible voters, can tell us a lot about an election. Young voters need to know when and how to register; when, where, and how to vote; and information about the races and candidates.| circle.tufts.edu