Our analysis of which youth voted by mail in 2012 and 2016, how they did it, and why, can offer insights to those looking to expand the practice in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our updated scan of state codes that encourage or facilitate electoral engagement and education for youth before they turn 18.
Practices like automatic and online voter registration, as well as pre-registration for young people before they turn 18, can improve youth voter participation.
Data from our 2012 poll of young people finds that 40% don't know key information about the voting process.
Pushback actions against voter ID laws and other legislation may have helped counteract their potentially suppressing effect on the youth vote.
Multiple stakeholders have a role to play in creating the conditions for increased and more equitable youth voting.
Young people understand and are affected by the issues, and the younger they vote the more likely they will continue to do so for a lifetime.