Youth registration rates for midterm elections have been dropping over the past 12 years, according to a Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement study.
According to CIRCLE, 49 percent of voters ages 18 to 29 voted in the 2010 midterm elections, down from 56 percent in the 2002 elections. St. Thomas political science professor Kathleen Winters said one of the major reasons is a lack of knowledge compared to presidential elections.
“Individuals may not know or care enough about the candidates or the offices in midterm elections, leading to greater apathy and lower voter turnout,” Winters said. “Because the president is so visible and many view him as having a greater ability to affect the direction of the nation, individuals tend to be more willing to put up with the costs associated with voting in elections of a higher stake.”
Freshman Mitchell Cerrato agreed that most students aren’t familiar with the voting process for the upcoming election.
“I have never voted,” Cerrato said. “I don’t think young adults understand enough about the candidates and what their vote will change.”
CIRCLE cited lack of media attention and voter outreach as reasons for the falling voter turnout rates, and several students and professors said they believe these need to be improved for better participation. Winters said there are two primary methods for “mobilizing young voters.”
“The first method involves fostering a greater feeling of having people’s votes and voices heard in government, as well as feeling like their vote or opinion matters,” Winters said. “The second method requires increasing information about voting laws, which would help make voting more accessible to young people, particularly those who are living away at college.”
Junior Allie Northrop said sending “youthfully aimed” messages would encourage college-aged students to vote.
“Something that might also be helpful would be if the candidates or political parties sent out reminders via social networks a few days before the election day, since almost all young adults are on social media sites,” Northrop said.
Although the young voter turnout is shrinking, Winters said it is to be expected.
“Typically, individuals become more involved in their community and also feel more part of the community as they age,” Winters explained. “Particularly for individuals who attend college. They tend to move more and not grow attached to a community because they know they are only there temporarily.”
Northrop said she believes in the importance of using her privilege to vote, and she encouraged other young people to vote in the election as well.
“I have voted in the past, and I do plan on voting in the upcoming elections because it’s a privilege and right that every American has,” Northrop said. “I think it’s important that everyone who is eligible to vote, votes. The only way you can have your voice heard is by voting.”
Elections take place on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Students living on North Campus can vote in McNeely Hall, while students living on South Campus can vote at the Groveland Recreation Center. Students will only need to show their student ID at their polling location to register to vote. Absentee ballots are also an option.
Scott Sikich can be reached at siki3549@stthomas.edu.