To Swing Elections, Candidates Look to Co-Eds

by Jen Lynds, UTIMES Advisor

PRESQUE ISLE, MAINE– In recent election cycles, voter turnout among college students has become a topic of increased interest and discussion. Traditionally seen as a demographic with historically low voting rates, college students have shown a notable surge in political participation, reflecting a shift in civic engagement. 

According to the Pew Research Center, the elections of 2018, 2020 and 2022 were three of the highest-turnout U.S. elections of their respective types in decades. Approximately two-thirds (66%) of the registered voting population participated in the 2020 presidential election, marking the greatest turnout percentage for any national election since 1900. The 2018 midterm election experienced the greatest turnout rate (49%), since 1914. Statistics from the center also noted that the 2022 election surpassed all midterm elections since 1970, despite a marginally lower turnout rate of 46%.

Students across the country are preparing to vote on Tuesday. While some are nonchalant about the opportunity, others look forward to it.

Alexa Guerra is a student in the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s YourPace program. She said that voting provides her with an opportunity to exercise her rights.

“I am happy to say I don’t know anyone who doesn’t vote,” she said.

Initially, social media and online platforms have emerged as essential instruments for enhancing awareness and organizing young voters. Organizations and individuals have utilized these channels to register voters and foster civic involvement. This has facilitated students’ comprehension of the voting process and its significance. Social media has allowed the swift dissemination of knowledge regarding critical problems, prompting the urgency to face critical problems and vote to solve them.
Remember that November 5, 2024—this TUESDAY–is Election Day! All states, with the exception of North Dakota, mandate registration, often several weeks in advance. The dates for requesting mail-in ballots may differ from the registration deadlines. Make sure you are registered to vote or have secured a mail-in ballot!