The question of whether high schoolers should have the right to vote creates differing opinions on both sides. Some argue that age alone doesn’t accurately show how ready someone is, and many teenagers today are passionate about the issues that shape their futures. With responsibilities like driving already given to them, some feel it’s reasonable to extend voting rights to high schoolers as well. However, others believe that voting should remain a responsibility for those who are legal adults, citing the maturity and life experience gained by age 18.
High Schoolers should be able to vote if they are under 18. The age of 18 is when you become a legal adult so it makes sense that they would make the requirement to vote that age. But just because someone is 18 does not make them more responsible than a 16 year old. 16 year olds may be in high school but we trust 16 year olds to drive cars. Cars are extremely dangerous in the wrong hands. What about the knowledge people gain in those 2 years? Usually, someone at 16 years old is only a sophomore, but at 18 they are seniors. Are those 2 years enough to give a teenager enough experience to be considered an adult. I think that 16-year-olds should be able to vote because those 2 years are not as critical as they may seem.
So we are going to let a 16-year-old drive a possible killing machine but we won’t let them vote? We could easily change requirements to let high schoolers vote. There could be some added requirements that make it slightly more difficult for a high schooler to vote, but still possible. The idea I believe would work best is add certain requirements that help prove they are worthy of voting. One requirement should be they need a driver’s license to prove they have some level of responsibility. Another requirement should be that they have to take a test to prove they have knowledge on the election and know about the possible candidates they could vote for. A final requirement would be to have permission from their parent to vote. This way, high school students can get their voices heard in the country and help get the government officials they want in office. It’s important that we get our voices heard. This is how I think we should go about high school voting and how we can earn the right to vote.
Sure, letting high schoolers vote sounds intriguing, but sticking with 18 as the voting age makes sense. At 18, you are a legal adult; that means you’ve reached a level of independence and experience in the world, which holds great importance when it comes to voting on issues that affect everyone. Voting isn’t just about having opinions; it’s about understanding complex policies and making choices that can have real consequences for our communities. While responsibilities like driving are serious, they don’t carry the same long-term impact as casting a ballot. A uniform voting age keeps it simple and ensures every voter has at least a basic level of life experience. Until then, getting involved through volunteering or learning about issues is a powerful way to prepare for the day when casting a vote is their turn.
Whether or not high schoolers should be able to vote, one thing is clear: getting involved matters. Young people have a powerful role to play in shaping the future. Whether it is through voting or other means. Encouraging conversations, staying informed and participating in our communities are steps anyone can take. So, as we approach election season, let’s all find ways to make our voices heard and help shape a future that reflects what we truly care about.