One of the true pleasures in being part of a non-partisan get-out-the-vote organization is the interest that young people show in what U.S. Vote Foundation does in order to make sure Every Citizen is a Voter. Even though our motto is technically about every eligible citizen, young people who are under the age of 18 and not eligible to vote can still have an impact on the voting process for this election and in the future.

Engaging young voters isn’t just a good idea: it’s essential to the success of our democracy. Young people lag behind other age cohorts in voting, and while the 2018 mid-terms were a watershed in youth vote turnout, the totals are still embarrassingly small: only 28 percent of all eligible voters between the age of 18-30 voted in 2018. As this age group represents approximately 35 percent of the total electorate, the largest single group of voters overall, this means that almost 10 percent of the electorate was missing action in 2018. That’s greater than the margin of victory in most major races.

So, even if you’re under 18, it’s not too early to get involved and get started on the road to actually casting a ballot when you come of age.

NEW! Ex-Offender Voting Rights Clarified

If you've been convicted and lost your voting rights, you can restore your right to vote in every state! 

In partnership with Hip Hop Caucus, U.S. Vote Foundation (US Vote) has created a comprehensive, up-to-date, easy-to-understand resource to guide voters through the ups and downs of ex-offender disenfranchisement.

There are variations in how the states address voting by ex-offenders and those with misdemeanors. Take nothing for granted - get informed. US Vote has made it easier for you. We created a new resource to allow voters and policy makers to easily navigate and understand the complex patchwork of laws regarding ex-offender disenfranchisement and re-enfranchisement.

Additionally, US Vote has worked hard to include all aspects of criminal disenfranchisement for all Americans, all in one place! This means that the US Vote Ex-Offender Voting Rights resource includes information on misdemeanor disenfranchisement, not just felony disenfranchisement, and includes US territories, not just the states. Check it out today!