Today is the last day to register to vote, and it’s crucial to get out and vote with the presidential election right around the corner.

The first step to voting is registering to vote, which is quite simple. You can register online, by mail, or by person. All you have to do is head to RegisterToVote.ca.gov.  

Sure, you have to be 18 to register to vote, but it’s never too early to get teenagers involved in the process. Even if you´re under 18 years of age, you can still pre-register to vote.  

In order to pre-register in California, you must be at least 16-years-old and a United States citizen. I highly encourage teens who are not yet allowed to vote to pre-register. I have already pre-registered to vote, so when I turn 18, I’m added to the registration list. Then when the time comes for me to vote, I will already be prepared. 

Voting is so important in our country, and I believe it’s something we should start involving young voters in. It’s something we should talk about more in school and in our communities, as well as inform young voters of the importance. 

Prior to pre-registering, I had no clue that pre-registering to vote was something I could do. And I know I am not alone. So my question is, why do young adults like myself not know this? 

Teens are our future and will have such a huge impact on our future democracy. It’s important to get them prepared and as involved as possible. Pre-registering to vote is a start at doing just that. 

In California, one of the ballot propositions is to allow 17-year-old citizens who will be 18 for the next general election to vote in primary and special elections. This seems like a fantastic idea that I think more states should look into. 

Allowing these teens to vote would be incredible, as 17 year old people are just as capable and as educated and informed in political issues as any 18 year old would be. 

It’s so important to start involving teens because all these decisions that so many adults are voting on in the coming weeks will ultimately affect teenagers’ futures, and they should have a say in the matter. 

Getting teens involved in voting at an early age would eventually become a habit, making their vote consistent. Lowering the voting age could also lead to a bigger voter turnout. 

Teens are old enough to work and pay taxes, so why shouldn’t they be allowed to vote?  

For teens looking to get involved, they can also volunteer as a poll worker. Becoming a poll worker would not only educate and benefit young people, but it would also help our democracy succeed. Poll workers teach teens the importance and integrity when it comes to voting. 

I myself am looking into becoming a poll worker, as I feel it would teach me a lot seeing as how voting works and just how many people are going out there to vote. 

Being involved in voting isn’t just about casting your ballot, but it’s helping out in polls and even pre-registering. Teenagers should be much more active and involved in voting, and I think this is the first step in getting teens in our community more engaged in political affairs.