Knowing how elections work is as crucial as understanding who we are voting for. Grasping the infrastructure of our election systems is vital to high school students because soon, we will be participants in the democratic process. Throughout history, various minority groups have experienced disproportionately lower voter turnout, profoundly influencing the outcome of decisions shaping our nation’s future. Low voter turnout stems from people feeling disinterested in politics, encountering barriers like complicated registration processes or the belief that their vote won’t make a meaningful impact. A lack of interest in political candidates and ballot measures also drives down voter participation.
Notably, even minor elections witness low levels of voter engagement. Because of this low voter turnout, many minorities are underrepresented among likely voters. The Public Policy Institute of California’s study of voter demographics in California for 2022 states “likely voters are disproportionately white.” Likely voters were also reportedly older, more educated, affluent and homeowning. This means that elections that influence our future do not represent a diverse percentage of the population. Many young people do not participate in smaller elections like midterms and are seen as “drop-off voters.” However, vote-by-mail registration helps ensure more consistent participation among our diverse population. This is still not enough, though: Even with the introduction of mail-in ballots, there are not enough active participants in the democratic process.
Another aspect of presidential elections that voters typically do not understand is the difference between the electoral college and the popular vote. The New York Times writes, “When Americans cast their ballots, they are voting for a slate of electors appointed by their state’s political parties who are pledged to support that party’s candidate.”
Many do not realize that voter participation ensures that the popular vote represents the preferences of the majority. It is more accurate and reflective of the entire community’s choices, which makes the democratic process stronger and more reliable. Recognizing that underrepresented communities’ lack of participation ultimately affects our generation is important when we all begin our journey as voters. Voting allows young people to shape the future and have a direct impact on the decisions that will affect our lives. Ensuring that our voices are heard and represented is becoming ever more important in our evolving world.
