They’re calling 2008 the “year of the youth vote.” Young voters have turned out in record numbers thus far in the election cycle, though the big question is whether come November 4 they’ll actually head to the polls.
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Politicians are notorious for giving lip service to young people without delivering results because let’s face it: young people don’t GOTV as much as their gray-haired counterparts. This year seems to be different, however. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers have tried to tackle policy issues such as student loans, the Iraq war and health insurance—topics that disproportionately affect young people. Even the presidential candidates, for better of for worse, are using celebrity starpower and social networking sites to appeal to this historically fickle voting bloc. Are these attempts superficial overtures or will they actually motivate young people to finally participate in the electoral process?
At Politics 101, I’ll report and analyze issues affecting young voters. I’m hoping this will be an interactive process, and I’d love to hear from you. Please drop me a line at csheffield@washingtontimes.com if there’s an issue or person you think should be highlighted in our community.
best,
Carrie Sheffield
