Countdown to Election Day: College Students and Young Voters Will Keep California Blue!

[courtesy of California Progress Report]

By Morgan Lucas
Southern California Vice President
California College Democrats

4.3 million more voters under the age of thirty cast their ballots in the 2004 election than had in 2000. The youth vote is becoming increasingly important to electoral success; in 2004 more 18-30 year olds voted than those over 65. Last year Democrats took back Congress because of 4 million new young voters.

Young voters are already paying attention to the 2008 election and acknowledge that its outcome has serious implications for the direction of our country. That is why with one year to go until Election Day, the California College Democrats begins its campaign to take back the White House. On over 22 college campuses throughout the state, thousands of college students have become involved in the political process – many for the first time – by registering to vote.

The College Democrats are proud that two major presidential campaigns, as well as many of California’s elected officials, have acknowledged the importance of youth by partnering with us for this event. At Sacramento State, Lt. Governor John Garamendi joined with students to register voters and commented that, “the key to taking back our nation lies in connecting with young people and transforming them into educated voters and committed activists.”

Consider what others have said:

• More young people voted in 2004 than voters over 65. Harvard Institute of Politics

• In 2004, 4.3 million more voters under the age of 30 cast ballots than in 2000. Young Voter Strategies

• If only young people voted Senator Kerry would be President. Young Voter Strategies

• In the midterm elections of 2006 nearly 2 million more young voters cast their ballots than did in 2002. Center for Investment and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement