Story URL: http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/washington/news.aspx?id=99813
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VOTER

by Brian McCabe
Oct 02, 2008



Brian McCabe/Medill News Service

Will young people vote this year?    


Young people look to rock the vote, finally

WASHINGTON - As voter registration nears its end and the presidential campaign gears up for its final month, America’s young people are poised to play a major role in the election.

Primary numbers indicate a major increase in the youth vote and many students are excited to cast their first ballot. Numbers also convey a high percentage of new voters have registered for this election. 

Organizations like the Student Association for Voter Empowerment, or SAVE, are working diligently to register and educate young voters. Matthew Segal, SAVE’s executive director, says his organization is also trying to break down any voting barriers that might exist.  

Some people are quick to point out that there was a large youth turnout in 2004. They also mention that it is important to look beyond registration numbers. Registering is the start, but one must vote to complete the process.