Let’s discuss voting in elections

Izzy Zarazua

December 5, 2025

A look into how voting is a civic duty of citizens

Craig Carey said, “[And] without casting your vote, you’re basically saying you don’t care enough about how it goes in the future.” Graphic by: Izzy Zarazua

Voting is the democratic process of citizens choosing their political leader and officials. The minimum voting age of the United States is 18 years of age, however it is not mandatory law to submit a vote. Since the first elections were held in the country, participating in elections has been a civic duty of citizens.

The United States is a democratic country and voting is a fundamental right that is accessible to U.S. citizens. The right for every citizen to vote has multiple historic landmarks protected in the Constitution, such as amendments 15, 19, 24 and 26, according to usa.gov. Whether it be a state proposition or a presidential candidate, participating in elections can represent a person’s values and beliefs. Voting in elections can determine where salary taxes are being spent. Vote aids in what acts are passed and what can be done about issues concerning each individual. Voting also holds officials in power accountable by amplifying the needs of the people. High voter turnouts in elections reduce voter suppression which is a non-democratic practice of discouraging groups of people from voting. The civic duty of voting can also prompt more political engagement and conversations, educating those on the reasons to vote. Craig Carey said, “Voting is absolutely a civic duty. A lot of people died for the right [and] for different groups of people to get or retain the right to vote and it is your civic duty to ensure that the direction of your community, your state and your nation go the way or direction or make the progress you wish to see made.”

Craig Carey said, “If you’re over 18, you better be voting. Use your voice or lose your voice.” Graphic by: Izzy Zarazua

The youth voting demographic is categorized as ages 18-24. Youth voters and their values and perspectives shape an inclusive democracy. Kalib Miller ‘26 said, “I don’t really like to get too political but we have an interesting person in office right now so I feel like voting would be important right now.” Miller also said, “Just in general, like participating even in local events, it would be ideal because, say, nobody voted, then it’s not a government by the people.”

In 1971, the age of voting was decreased to 18 years of age and the youngest voting demographic showed the lowest turnout. However, the youth vote can aid in determining topics like reproductive health, climate change and economic issues. Political apathy and lack of knowledge on current candidates, propositions and acts are some reasons for low voting turnouts. The 2024 election however saw a 47% youth voter turnout, while nearly a decade ago in 2016, that number stood at 39%, according to Circle. California Statewide special elections were recently held Nov. 4, regarding Proposition 50, which was passed. For those 18 years of age and interested in registering to vote, visit the VHS website and click on the Student Life menu, then click “register to vote.”