They're Ready to Vote, Are You?

Sometimes it is hard to remember what it was like when you had the opportunity to vote for the first time. We asked some of our youth advocates their thoughts on planning to cast their ballot. 

Remember, now is the time to check your voter registration and make your plan.  It’s easy on our Elections Resources site to:

• Register to vote.
• Check your voter registration status.
• Find your polling place for in-person voting.
• See the latest updates on voting in your state.
• Learn about public health measures appearing on your ballot. 

Andre Scott, TX said, “In a nation where significant action is needed, my mother and every soul who has guided me have educated me on the importance of using my gift to vote once I can. I am beyond blessed to be eligible to vote for an individual who can plan, implement, and enforce an improved livelihood for the country I care for and love.”

Graceanne Morgan, AR shared, "Voting is my voice, my power, my right, and my chance to shape the future. I'm inspired by the generations before me who fought for this right, and as a first-time voter, I'm excited to honor their legacy by standing up for what I believe in and making my mark on the world."

Mallory Jones, Miss Kentucky’s Teen 2024 wrote, “Even though I won’t be 18 until next year, I believe it’s so important for young people to vote because we have the power to shape the future. Voting is our chance to make a real difference, from policies on education to healthcare—and even heart health, something I’m especially passionate about. I follow and read about politics because I want to be informed and ready when my turn comes. Our voices matter, and I’m looking forward to the day I can cast my vote and be part of the change!”

Kaylea Chastain from AR said, “I believe our generation is the change. Educating and empowering young women on the voting process is of the utmost importance. I am inspired as a first time voter to be a voice and hopefully lead more women my age to also make their voice heard.”

Anthony Goswick, NC told us, “What does voting mean to me?  It means having the opportunity to actively be involved in the representation in government, having my voice and opinion heard.  It also means for the first time participating in my civic duty to help choose and frame the leaders that I would like to see running my local, state and federal governments.” 

“Voting is more than just a civic duty for me; it’s a powerful way to shape the world around me. I’m inspired to vote because I believe in the power of my voice being heard and the collective impact of every individual in a democracy”, shared Kaitlyn B. Brazle.

Tori Beth Poland from AR shared, "Voting is an empowering way for me to actively engage in my community, stay informed about the government, and take meaningful action to create positive change. It allows me to exercise my right to voice my opinions and contribute to the decisions that impact our society. Being able to vote makes me feel empowered, active, and deeply involved in shaping the future of my community."

“As I prepare to vote for the first time, I feel like I’m stepping into a new chapter of adulthood. Reading articles, watching debates, and thinking about the social impacts of topics like net neutrality and fiscal policy—once just pastimes—now feel much more pressing. I’ve come to understand the responsibility I carry in shaping the country I’ve grown up in, and it’s one I’m eager to take on. My long-term interests lie in healthcare reform, but I know voting is one of my first steps toward influencing the direction of our nation,” stated Nayan Sapers, MA. 

“What it means for me to vote is having a voice in our community, our state, and our country. Being a first time voter this year, it has not only inspired me to be more proactive in my community but also staying informed on events that are happening!”, said Kenleigh Garner from AR.

"For the longest time, women didn't have the right to vote, and our voices were silenced. I am excited to vote so I can use my voice as a first-time voter, and I will empower other women to use their voices too.", shared Mae Armstrong from AR.