By Jess Benninger ’26, associate editor

Only 36% of voters in 2022 United States midterm elections were under the age of 50.

This shocking statistic reveals a troubling problem in the United States: older Americans are calling all the shots in governmental elections.

The perspective of younger people is crucial to ensuring that America remains a democracy, which is a government that relies on the opinions of all eligible people.

Gen Z is also the most diverse age group, which means that younger voters offer new and innovative perspectives on governmental issues. Even though Gen Z is young, they still offer plenty of insight into how the U.S. should be run.

So, why don’t younger Americans vote?

Some younger people have a lack of faith in the American government system as a whole. It’s not that people are apathetic about political issues; rather, young voters might not believe that their vote will make a difference.

The majority, however, face numerous setbacks that prevent them from voting. Some of these barriers include long lines at polling locations, inability to get to the polls and inaccessible voting times.

As a result of these roadblocks, young voters’ voices are not being heard and American elections are not fully representative of the American people.

If the majority of Gen Z changed their mindsets and voted in each American election, significant difference can be made.

Since the turnout for younger voters has been low over the past several years, an increase in young voter turnout would result in dramatic changes to election results. Issues that matter to Gen Z matter, and it is important that younger voices are able to vote in all elections.

Education on voting needs to be more prominent and accessible to high school and college students. Many Gen Z Americans don’t know how to register to vote, which is the first step in making a difference.

Voter registration in Pennsylvania is easily accessible online. Those interested in voting can also contact their local officials for more information.

For those who are out of state during election season for college or other reasons, mail-in ballots can be requested in lieu of in-person voting. Mail-in ballots can be requested online, as well. To submit mail-in ballots, voters should carefully follow the instructions that came with the ballot.

Don’t let a lack of education be the reason you don’t vote.

Gen Z voices matter. Make sure your vote counts.