I think that lowering the voting age to 16 is a smart move, considering the fact that teenagers these days are already working, paying taxes, and actively shaping their communities. It only makes sense that they should have a say in decisions that affect them. Voting earlier also builds citizen responsibilities, which helps young people see participation in democracy not as just an afterthought. Adding more diverse voices strengthens our political system and ensures that the issues impacting the next generation are actually represented.
Some argue that 16-year-olds aren’t mature enough to make informed choices, but research shows that young voters are just as capable of making thoughtful decisions as adults. If we deny them the right to vote because of age, we’re ignoring the fact that they already live with consequences of political decisions they did not have a say in. That’s why I believe lowering the voting age is a fair way to keep our democracy strong.
