Why does a lower voting age make sense for North Dakota?
• Every little bit helps. Young people are leaving North Dakota for many reasons, both social and economic. No single action is going to stop this flow, but every little bit helps. Lowering the voting age is just one of many things that we must do if youth are going to want to stick around in North Dakota. • It brings new voices to politics. Young people aren’t being heard where it matters most. State legislators of both parties hem and haw over outmigration, but nothing is accomplished. They’re almost out of ideas, and though they are still trying, the solution will be elusive without real input from young people. It’s time to give youth a chance to make their opinions count when it comes to choosing their legislators. • It builds trust and respect. Youth aren’t regarded highly by many adults; for many young people the feeling is mutual. By leveling the playing field– by making their thoughts and opinions equal through a lower voting age, a giant step is taken toward mutual respect.
