This four-step framework will help you navigate the voting process with confidence this election season.
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As the Nov. 5 election approaches, young voters have a unique opportunity to shape their future. This election is a chance to amplify our voices on the issues that matter most to us. For many, this will be our first presidential election, and while the excitement is palpable, the process can feel overwhelming. Between registering to vote, researching candidates, and determining how to cast our ballot, it’s easy to feel lost. As we navigate these steps, this guide is here to empower you in making your voice heard.
I’m a sophomore at the University of Virginia, eager to participate in my first presidential election. Growing up, I often heard people say that young voices didn’t matter in politics. However, when I joined NextGen America, the nation’s largest youth vote organization, at UVA and helped a fellow student register to vote for the first time, I discovered the immense power of our generation’s collective voice. This experience reinforced my belief in the potential of young people to shape the future and intensified my excitement to cast my first vote this year.
As I began this journey, I quickly realized that while we often hear about the significance of voting, the specific actions needed to ensure our voices are heard can be harder to find. To clarify this process, I’ve put together a four-step action plan with valuable resources to assist you in creating your own voting plan—so you can approach the upcoming election with confidence.
Step 1: Register to Vote—Engage in Your Civic Duty
Registering to vote is not just a formality—it’s your first act of civic engagement.
First things first: Are you registered to vote?
While this step may seem straightforward, it’s crucial, especially with Election Day just weeks away. Check and update your registration status here; it takes just a couple of minutes. If you find that you’re not registered, don’t panic! The process is easy, but you must act now to meet your state’s deadlines. Depending on where you live, registration deadlines for online or in-person applications may vary—you can find your information here.
This step is about more than just checking a box; it’s your chance to participate in shaping the policies that impact your life. My fellow college students, remember that you’re members of this community too. Make sure to register on your campus, where resources are available to assist you. If you’ve moved or changed personal information since your last vote, updating your registration is equally important to ensure you receive the correct ballot on time.
Once you confirm your registration, you’ll feel a sense of relief knowing you’re ready to make your voice heard. And remember, registering to vote is not just a formality—it’s your first act of civic engagement and a powerful step toward shaping the future you want to see.
Step 2: Research Candidates and Issues—Become an Informed Voter
Now that you’re registered, it’s time to delve into the heart of the election: the candidates and ballot measures that will shape our future. This is your opportunity to flex your research muscles.
Start by downloading a sample ballot specific to your county—it serves as your blueprint for what’s to come. Use this nonpartisan voter guide to determine where each candidate stands on the issues that matter most to you, whether it’s the rising cost of living, climate change, reproductive healthcare or other topics that resonate with your values. This will help clarify candidates’ positions and make it easier for you to compare them side by side.
Don’t forget to explore endorsements from local and national organizations that align with your values, too. These endorsements can provide valuable insights into which candidates prioritize the issues that matter to you and help inform your decisions on state and local measures.
Finally, remember the importance of down-ballot voting. Many voters focus only on high-profile races, but down-ballot races are equally crucial, affecting policies that impact our daily life. Up to 20 percent of voters leave local races unmarked, missing the opportunity to influence critical issues like housing and education. By putting time into your research now, you’ll be better prepared to make informed choices at every level of the ballot.
Step 3: Create Your Voting Plan—Your Strategy for Success
Will you vote by mail, vote early, or go to the polls on Election Day?
With your research in hand, it’s time to craft a voting plan tailored to your needs. This plan is your roadmap for success as you prepare to cast your ballot.
Start by visiting the U.S. Election Assistance Commission website, select your state, and click on the local election office directory. From there, find your county to access all key dates and deadlines. This resource will help you understand your voting options, deadlines, ballot casting or ballot drop box locations, as well as hours of operation, ensuring your plan allows you to meet all necessary requirements.
Consider your voting options: Will you vote by mail, vote early, or go to the polls on Election Day? Keep in mind that voting methods differ based on state and local county regulations, so evaluate your available options and determine what fits best with your lifestyle. Be proactive; don’t let a missed deadline derail your voting plans!
As you finalize your voting plan, remember that preparation is essential for ensuring your voice is heard. In the 2022 midterm elections, 52 percent of eligible voters participated, yet many non-voters cited scheduling conflicts as their main reason for not casting a ballot. If you plan to vote in person, research your polling place and its hours of operation. If you need transportation, coordinate with friends or family to ensure a smooth trip.
Step 4: Vote and Share—Empower Others to Participate
Now that you’ve navigated the voting process, it’s time to bring others along for the ride. Democracy thrives when we all participate, and sharing resources is a powerful way to engage our community.
Voting is an act of empowerment. Make your voice heard and motivate those around you. Every vote counts, and by fostering discussions, you help demystify the voting process and create a culture of civic engagement.
As young voters, we have the power to shape the future. In 2024, Gen Z will make up over 40 million voters—including 8 million newly eligible—representing nearly one-fifth of the electorate. Together with millennials, we are a dynamic force in our democracy.
Let’s turn out with confidence and ensure our generation is not just seen but truly heard in the halls of power. Together, we can create a future that works for all of us.
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