Turning in a ballot for the first time can often seem overwhelming. There aren’t many resources available for first time voters, which makes the process feel daunting. Statistics show that Gen Z is one of the most politically involved generations, aside from Millenials. According to a survey conducted by Tufts College, among the Gen Z that didn’t vote in 2022, only 28% said it was because they didn’t think it mattered. Millenials had a statistic of 40%, leaving people to wonder what’s different between the two generations. They also found that 16% of Gen Zers that didn’t vote in the 2022 election said it was because they didn’t know how, or had trouble with the application. This begs the question- what do we as a society need to do?

Akina French, a 17 year-old Junior at Rex Putnam High School says she doesn’t know how to register to vote, and hasn’t been provided enough resources to figure out how. “I feel like teachers encourage us to vote, but we don’t really get any lessons or information about it.” Akina personally believes it’s important to vote so that everyone is heard, but thinks youth should have more support. 

There seems to be a lack of information for first time voters, and it discourages our youth from exercising their right to vote. An option that many don’t know about is that the DMV has an option for you to register while you get your driver’s license. If you are under 18 you can only pre-register, which means you will automatically be sent a ballot in the mail when you’re of legal age. Utilizing an opportunity like this can make the process easier, and offer you some assistance. It’s important to note that you do not have to vote if you do not wish to, and it’s okay to be unsure. Hopefully voter education can be prioritized in the future to help new voters out. If you have questions about the voting process, you can ask any voter within your personal circle or go to https://sos.oregon.gov/elections to conduct your own research.