As a part of the American Constitution, all citizens have the right to vote. Additionally, with a presidential election coming up on Tuesday and a group of newly qualified students, there has been an influx of voters.
Numerous seniors are eligible to vote for the first time this year. Senior Brynn Lowe said she plans to participate in the upcoming election and many that come after it.
“I’m excited to put my vote in and, being a young voter, I think it’s important that young people get into the polls,” Lowe said.
Lowe said she was compelled to vote because of the effect it would have on her future. She said she wants a candidate that aligns with her goals for the next four years.
“It’s definitely scary being a first-time voter, but I think I’m ready,” Lowe said. “I might not know the most, but I will stick to my morals and my ideals.”
Social studies teacher Laura Mason said she has voted in nearly every election since she turned 18 and thinks it is important for the youth to do so as well. She said the process is not daunting or long, but does reward voters with an “I Voted” sticker and personal accomplishment.
“[The seniors are] about to graduate high school and go into the real world. They are legally adults, and so I think it’s important that they have a say in the world that they’re part of and take some responsibility in creating the world that they want,” Mason said.
Mason said she views the election as an incredibly important privilege for citizens to take advantage of. However, the presidential election is not the only way local residents can use their right to vote.
“The things that really change and impact your day-to-day life in Johnson County, Kansas, are local electors,” Mason said. “Making sure you also pay attention to the rest of the ballot, and not just the name at the top, I think could be really impactful, and something that not everybody thinks about right when they turn 18.”
Mason said she encourages new voters to prepare by studying the facts from reputable sources. Lowe said she plans to research all of the candidates on the ballot.
“I think it’s important to be educated before you vote, so you’re not just going in there blind,” Lowe said.
Historically, Mason said, the United States has fought for the right to vote. In order to fully understand and use those rights, she said she hopes students will consider voting.
“Having young voters keeps momentum going, because if it was only the old voters, then we wouldn’t have as many good changes we’ve seen, with civil rights or suffrage for women,” Mason said. “Those are movements that had a lot of younger people in them that have had a profound impact on the future of the country. I think sometimes you have to leave it up to the youth to do what needs to be done.”
