Increase Voting Participation from the Younger Generation Through Texting

Posted by Richard Michael on October 6th, 2016

The youth represents a huge possible political group and have the ability to shape elections.  Before they can vote, though, young voters’ need to register first.  But this is not easy for many students, considering that the election could fall during term-time.  Many first-time voters are college students who needed to move to attend a university far from home.  As such, they need to think whether to vote in their university area or in their home states.

In an effort to increase voter participation from the younger generation, some states allow residents to register through text.  Seeing that the mobile phone is at the center of young people’s everyday lives, text messaging is a great method to communicate with them and encourage them to cast votes.  Young voters can simply register while they are taking the bus ride home or while waiting for football practice.  The main purpose is to make it more accessible for them to take part in future elections.

There are other reasons for a low voting turnout of young voters as well.  Some university students move around and travel frequently.  As a result, many university students are not updated about their local elections.   And there are some voters who decline to cast their ballots because they feel let down by political parties.

Universities can use text messaging programs to raise awareness and develop the young voters interest in politics.  Texting is the normal communication method of the Millennials.  Giving election updates including how, where, and when to register can create a positive influence on the youth and help them make better decisions.  

Young voters need to understand that the result of the elections can heavily impact their future.  Text messaging is effective in spreading information on a large scale and creating political consciousness.  Also, voters who receive text reminders are more likely to vote compared to individuals who did not get any reminders.