Has youth turnout decreased in recent elections?
Thursday, July 30, 2020
By Miriam Himelstein
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NO
Historically, turnout among voters aged 18 to 24 has been much lower than among older voters. However, there is not a significant or long-lasting downward trend in youth turnout. In fact, during the 2018 midterm elections, turnout nearly doubled compared to the 2014 midterm elections, and more young people voted in the 2016 presidential election than in 2012.
Over time, turnout among young voters has fluctuated, with recent peaks in 2004 and 2008 and notable downturns in 1996 and 2000.
Estimates from twelve early 2020 primaries showed a mixed picture, with strong youth turnout gains in four states. A USC research program reports that California's youth turnout was down slightly from 2016.
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