With the 2024 election behind us, questions linger about the role teenagers and young adults played. Do young people hold real influence in elections? And in a world where some voices urge them to "stay out of politics" while others push for full civic engagement, where does the youth perspective truly fit? What influences their vote, and what drives them to participate?

One factor is a pervasive distrust in the government. Many young people feel their voices are overlooked in a political landscape that appears skewed toward older or wealthier voters. A study by Harvard’s Institute of Politics found that nearly half of young Americans believe their votes don’t make a difference. This sense of disillusionment can lead to apathy and disengagement, especially when candidates or policies seem far removed from issues relevant to young voters.

Barriers in the Voting Process

Logistical hurdles also present a challenge for young people, especially those voting for the first time. Students who live away from home may encounter difficulties with absentee voting or miss registration deadlines. Varying state rules and complicated procedures only add to the confusion, making it hard for new voters to navigate the process without support or resources.

Social Media and Misinformation

Social media serves as a major source of news for young Americans, but it’s also a platform where misinformation thrives. Misleading information on voting requirements or candidates can discourage young people from voting or cause confusion. With targeted misinformation often aimed at younger, undecided voters, many hesitate, unsure of what’s accurate. While some social media platforms have tried to combat misinformation, the issue remains widespread.

Issues That Resonate

Young people are deeply passionate about issues like climate change, student debt, and mental health – topics they feel are often neglected in traditional political debates. When candidates don’t address these issues, young people may feel there’s no one worth voting for. “A lot of young people want to vote, but they don’t feel there’s a candidate or policy that represents their views,” says Chloe Adams, an analyst for YouthVote.

Social Activism as an Alternative

Interestingly, today’s young people are among the most civically engaged generations, often participating in social movements such as March for Our Lives or Fridays for Future. While these forms of activism are powerful, they can sometimes make voting seem secondary, as young people view activism as a more direct way to achieve change.

Solutions in Focus

Despite these barriers, efforts are being made to boost youth voter turnout. Expanded civic education, automatic voter registration, and simplified absentee voting are all being explored to make voting more accessible. Additionally, some organizations are working to counter misinformation and highlight candidates’ stances on youth-centered issues.

Ultimately, while young Americans face several obstacles when it comes to voting, targeted changes and increased outreach could transform youth engagement in elections. If more young people come to see voting as a meaningful way to shape the future, their participation could drive lasting change.