“Your vote matters.” Something we always hear every three years in October and November, but really, how much does your vote matter? Furthermore, why is an educated vote so important, and how do voters determine what an educated vote is? Why are most young voters hesitant to vote, or don’t vote based on personal conflicts? This voting season, we spoke with Holly Esbeck, the AHS Government teacher, on how to make an informed decision, voting trends, and the importance of casting a vote. 

According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2022, about 30% of all non-voters were 18-29 years old, and in addition, only 11% were registered to vote. AHS government teacher Holly Esbeck has a couple of theories as to why younger generations choose not to vote. She has recalled hearing reasons “including a belief that their vote doesn’t matter, a misunderstanding of the process, and feeling disconnected from politicians.” However, these explanations couldn’t be further from the truth. Voting is a way to improve your family, neighbors, and your own life through deciding where your tax dollars go, improving crime rates, fighting against racism and discrimination, and making your voice heard. Additionally, at this point in history, a president who makes necessary decisions for current issues is needed to maintain America’s longevity. For example, the conflict in the Middle East, Roe V. Wade, inflation, and global warming. “Young voters across the political spectrum are moving toward agreement on key issues. Both young liberals and young conservatives desire effective government action to solve challenges. Previously, their parents and grandparents have been in conflict over the role of government. Young voters want a government that is responsive to their needs and the unique challenges of their generation,” said Esbeck. 

In 2024, finding a reliable source for information regarding candidates, and the election can be difficult. Finding a news source that is unbiased is important for forming a well-informed opinion, and making a rational decision at the polls. Most young voters get their information from social media outlets, like TikTok, and Youtube opposed to news sites, like CNN or FOX. Esbeck observed that “(young voters) look for content creators who can break things down and help them make sense of the latest headlines. For some, family discussions are another way they get their information.” However, unbiased news sites are available. “The best outlets include The Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News, NPR, PBS NewsHour, and ProPublica,” Esbeck shared. A way to determine how biased a news outlet is, is by checking AllSides.com. AllSides provides an array of political outlets, and ranks them from left-side-biased, to right-side-biased, as well as fact-checking. Fact-checking information derived from news outlets is also equally important as researching. “One of our responsibilities as citizens is to check the reliability of our sources and look for information that has been verified by experts or fact-checkers,” Esbeck added. 

What does your vote really mean? Whilst living in a small-town midwest, many voters– especially new voters– feel that their vote doesn’t matter. Esbeck explained that voting “plays a vital role, no matter where you live,” and added that “voter turnout from the minority party can indicate changing opinions or growing support for alternative perspectives. Over time, this can shift the political landscape. Your vote doesn’t just affect the top of the ticket (like president or governor); it impacts issues like ballot measures, judges, and local laws.”

This year when you head to the polls, be sure to vote informed, and have a clear mind. Esbeck advises to “not let political drama affect your mental health,” and to research what will be on your ballot, and conduct research on each candidate. In Cass County, you can access your sample ballots here. If you’re a new voter having a difficult time figuring out the ins and outs of voting, contact Holly Esbeck at [email protected].