In a significant move toward empowering youth, a proposal to lower the voting age for school board elections to 16 has gained attention, supported by Governor Phil Murphy and advocacy group Vote16USA. If passed, this would be the first statewide law of its kind, with individual cities such as Newark already embracing this idea. This law can instill the habit of voting at an early age — an integral skill in the democratic process — for a generation that needs it now more than ever.

The United States already struggles with voting participation. Only around two-thirds of the voting-eligible population turned out for the 2020 presidential election, and it was still the highest participation rate in over a century. However, when we compare these figures to those of other countries, the United States falls behind most developed nations, ranking a disappointing 31 out of 49 countries globally. Introducing younger voters into voting early could be a pivotal step to improving our democracy.

The United States already struggles with voting participation.

Concerns about younger voters being swayed by fleeting emotions or specific candidates are understandable. However, the potential increase in the voting population is not as alarming as it may seem. 15,859 votes were cast in the last school board election as per the Daily Princetonian, and if only students from public high schools were allowed to vote (as those in private high schools have no relevant interest), they would represent less than five percent of the vote (assuming approximately all 800 eligible PHS students voted).

Recent tumultuous years at PHS caused by decisions of the Board of Education — such as the termination of Principal Chmiel, mask mandates, and scheduling changes — would surely engage students in the political process. The approval of this change can lead to improved voting habits as students mature, encouraging them to consider issues that directly impact their education while fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to their communities. By lowering the voting age for school board elections, we can ensure that the voices of young people are heard and valued in decisions that shape their education, opening the doors to a more engaged electorate.