young people and voting

Young voters are playing an increasingly significant role in American elections. After decades of declining turnout, today’s young adults, the Millennial Generation, are emerging as a political powerhouse – voting in record numbers and playing a deciding role in close elections.

Numbering 44 million citizens in 2008, today’s 18-29 year olds are voting in growing numbers. Turnout among 18-29 year olds increased by millions in both 2004 and 2006.

Eighteen to 29 year old voters doubled and tripled their turnout in virtually every primary and caucus of the 2008 cycle.1 Overall, young voter turnout increased 109% in states where comparisons are possible – more than double.2 Not only are young adults voting in record numbers, this group of voters is making the difference in elections around the country. In 2006, the youth vote was the winning margin
in several congressional and Senate contests, including Montana, Virginia and Missouri; in 2008, young adults propelled the winners to victory on both sides of the aisle in many states, including Iowa, Georgia and California. In 2008, candidates who want to win will need to court young voters. Use this handbook as a tool to do just that. Target young voters to win today and to build a powerful base for generations to come.