Millions of young people have lent their energy to candidates and campaigns, but many more would do so if given the opportunity.
We estimate that only 23% of eligible voters under age 20 cast ballots in the 2018 midterm elections.
Our research show that youth contribute to electoral campaigns at similar rates than older adults.
Our new turnout estimate based on voter file data from 42 states shows a significant increase compared to 2014.
Young people are simultaneously worried, hopeful, and motivated to be part of the solution.
In all 42 states for which data is available, the percentage of eligible young people who cast ballots was higher in 2018 than in 2014.
While contact from campaigns surged, too many young people remained left out, undermobilized, and underrepresented in the electorate.
A majority of young people paid attention to the Parkland school shooting, and supporters of the movement were more likely to participate in the election.
Because of their immense reach and potential to reach a broad range of young people, social media played a crucial role in the 2018 midterm elections cycle.