Voting impacts society by giving people a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. It helps ensure that laws and policies reflect on the people . Young people are often told that politics aren’t for them, but the past elections prove how wrong that is. The candidates’ stances on issues are shaping our future.  

“Voting is important because this is a democratic republic and you must do your part as an American citizen,” said senior Julia Schmidt.  

The 2024 election saw about 8 million new voters, and young people played a big role in shaping the results. For many, one of the most important issues is women’s reproductive rights.

“Voting is important because although certain policies may not apply to you, they apply to people around you,” said senior Addison Berry. “I don’t think states should be deciding what women should get to do with their bodies. It should be an all-around choice for women and not decided by someone in the state house.”

“The most important issue that I care about as a woman is reproductive rights,” Schmidt said.

Other seniors are speaking out about a variety of issues they’re passionate about. There are so many important issues in this election that aren’t being talked about as much. 

“I feel passionate about women’s rights because I am a female, and I also feel passionate about homelessness because it is a very big issue in our area,” said senior Wren Spelts.

Young people’s voices have power, and it’s up to them to use it. Whether it’s reproductive rights, homelessness, or any other issue we care about, voting is the way to create change. This is their future, and they’re stepping up to make sure it reflects what they believe in.