New Jersey’s largest city, Newark, is set to lower the voting age to 16 for school board elections, with hopes of expanding the initiative statewide. This move comes as part of a growing trend in the U.S. and around the world to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local and parliamentary elections. Countries like Austria, Estonia, and Malta have already implemented this change, with positive results.
Research has shown that lowering the voting age can lead to higher turnout among young voters and can create lasting effects into adulthood. Young people are informed and care about the same issues as older voters, debunking arguments about a lack of knowledge.
Newark’s upcoming school board election will mark the first time 16- and 17-year-olds can vote in New Jersey, and over 7,000 teenagers are estimated to be eligible. While there are challenges to implementing a lower voting age, advocates believe that with proper voter education and engagement efforts, young voters can become active participants in the democratic process.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy supports lowering the voting age and has been promoting the initiative in schools. Newark’s City Council’s decision to lower the voting age signifies a step towards expanding voting rights in the state. Despite challenges, advocates believe that full enfranchisement for 16- and 17-year-olds in all U.S. elections is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and engaged electorate.
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