The voting age should remain at 18 and not be lowered. People under 18 lack the real-world experience needed to form well-rounded political opinions. “Furthermore, those under 18 traditionally follow their parents’ political opinions. This often results in them adopting similar, if not identical, political beliefs based on their upbringing and impressionability as children, which can directly shape who they vote for.”
Some may argue that people under 18 are still taxed on their paychecks, but this stretches traditional American values. For example, the average property tax in New Jersey exceeds $10,000 per year—an amount those under 18 will not pay for many years. The money deducted from part-time jobs is not comparable to property taxes. Others claim that many people under 18 have a deep understanding of politics. Those aged 16 and 17 should use this time to learn about the importance of voting and develop their own political opinions based on personal values, rather than simply supporting the party their elders favor.
