By Kiara Doyal, The Seattle Medium
With the upcoming presidential election approaching, it’s important for young people who are not yet eligible to vote to learn how they can get involved early. Washington’s Future Voter Program allows 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote, ensuring they are ready to vote when they turn 18.
According to the Secretary of State’s office, 16- and 17-year-olds who pre-register through the Future Voter Program will automatically be registered to vote when they become eligible. Those who turn 18 between the August Primary and the November General Election can even vote in the Primary.
“Most years, that means they will receive a ballot for the August Primary, but in presidential election years like this one, Future Voters who will be 18 by the General Election in November will receive a ballot for the Presidential Primary and the August Primary,” said Courtney Hudak, Communications Specialist for King County Elections.
To qualify for the program, a person must be at least 16 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a Washington state resident.
Hudak says that the program ensures that every voice, including the voice of young people, are part of the democratic process.
“The Future Voter Program is one way to make sure that new voters have easy access to their ballots,” says Hudak. “Voting is not only a constitutional right, it is also a way to make your voice heard, to influence decision-makers, and to represent your neighborhood in local elections.”
In addition to the Future Voter Program, King County offers a student internship program. This work-study initiative provides high school and college students the opportunity to learn how elections operate while being paid to share that knowledge with their peers.
KC Jung, program lead for the student internship program, says that the program is an invaluable initiative for our youth and community because it empowers young individuals to take charge of their own decisions and shape their futures.
“By fostering a culture of voting from an early age, we instill the importance of civic engagement as a lifelong habit. This program not only educates them about their rights and responsibilities but also encourages them to voice their opinions and make informed choices that impact their lives and the community at large,” says Jung.
Increasing youth engagement in elections has been a significant topic of discussion, especially in the context of this year’s presidential race. Programs like the Future Voter Program help achieve the broader goal of empowering young people to participate in politics and make their voices heard.
“The Future Voter program is one way young voters can take matters into their own hands, and make their own decisions about how their communities should work,” says Hudak.
“Together, we are building a generation of engaged citizens who understand that their votes matter,” says Jung.
You can find more information about the WA Future Voter program at https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters/voter-eligibility-resources/future-voter-program.
