"I Voted"

Stepping out onto my front porch this morning, feeling the chilled, damp air and overcome with the bleak appearance of the day, I doubted the voting turnout would be as strong as expected. Quite the contrary though. Making my way to class, dodging the cloud of umbrellas whisking above my head, there was one thing I couldn't help but notice-everyone's "I voted" sticker proudly placed on their chest. This blaring symbol of patriotism isn't thought to be found so adamantly on college students, the voting (or non-voting) group that is known for having no interest in politics, not voting, or being uneducated about the vote they happen upon (because they have no interest).

If this stereotype was ever really that accurate in the past, this election has helped change that image. Andy Kenney, staff writer for the Daily Tar Heel published the article "A bloc to be reckoned with" in today's issue, focused on the change in the amount of youth voters and their reasons for becoming politcally involved. One UNC student was quoted in the article saying, Obama has "made it hip to go vote, the cool thing to do." Whether or not Obama is the main connection to youth voter's interest in the 2008 election, voting certainly has become much more popular and almost essential for today's youth.

Speaking of Obama, 63% of youth voters polled by the National Gallup are leaning towards Obama and support the Democratic party. Almost half of registered voters in the 18-29 bracket, label themselves as "independent," and Obama is a candidate this generation seems to identity more greatly with. How did he gain more prominence (at least according to statistics)? Some say it may be linked to his use of the internet in campaigning. As part of a progressive party, Obama has gone away from traditional campaigning methods with this election and targeted younger voters through websites, emails, blogs, and facebook. But then again, I have to say I have seen plenty of McCain advertisements through the web as well. All in all, connecting through a new form of media to a younger generation has proven successful in encouraging young voters to become educated and have an interest in the presidential election.

Well then what else has been a major factor in the increase in youth voting? The economy. About 40% of the 18-29 age group bracket is comprised of college students, and many are concerned about paying for college and the state of the economy after graduation. Both Obama and McCain are in tune with college students' concerns and support greater accessibility for student loans. Obama is in favor of the Federal Direct Loan program, which saves money for borrowers and taxpayers-something that everyone seems to like. McCain supports the Federal Family Education Loan Program that aids in borrowers recieving loans from third party lenders, which can be more accessible to a wider range of applicants. Both candidates are embracing worthy plans for students, and they are met with equal support by the increase in political interest and voting. According to the Daily Tar Heel, "Since January 2008, 90,000 young adults registered to vote in North Carolina, a 16 percent increase in less than a year and the largest gain of any age group." Being part of this group myself, I recognize that I have taken a much larger interest in this election than previous ones. Granted I was not of voting age in the last election, but I still never took the time to educate myself on each party's stances on the issues (issues that affect each and every person in the U.S.). I think many of us are starting to realize that our votes do count, at least for taking pride in what we represent...and if we don't know what we're voting for then who knows what our nation will represent in our futures.