Coffman wants the age restriction dropped from 18 to 16.
“It’s about expanding the franchise to municipalities and creating an opportunity to engage a new generation, a younger cohort of individuals into the system,” said Coffman.
He says the resolution addresses voter apathy and declining turnout by giving teenagers a chance to learn and participate.
“That develops that sticky habit of voting throughout their life,” said Coffman.
“It’s about expanding the franchise to municipalities and creating an opportunity to engage a new generation, a younger cohort of individuals into the system,” said Coffman.
He says the resolution addresses voter apathy and declining turnout by giving teenagers a chance to learn and participate.
“That develops that sticky habit of voting throughout their life,” said Coffman.
A 16 year old's perspective (Manal S.)
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His/Her Perspective:
I believe that a 16 year old should be allowed to vote as it gets them more involved in politics. One way would be to allow younger people the vote, as it would encourage them to investigate further into how it all works. Some may not be interested at all, that’s fine. But should we really obstruct the opportunities for those interested in learning more? I think it is important for young people to be interested in politics as will affect them hugely at some point in their lives, therefore we should offer 16 year olds and over the vote. The 16 year olds are mature enough to make the right decisions and vote for the right leader. It will further increase the voter turnout. And the main question is that is the 16 year old have the rights to marriage, driver's licence or even move out., then why can't they be trusted to the right to vote? |