When you think of November three things automatically pop into your mind: turkey, pie, and football. If Election Day isn’t in your realm of thought, then politicians are continuing to do a poor job of mobilizing teens to vote.
New data shows that when it comes to teens, especially among young black voters, both political parties are failing to drive large numbers to the polls. Voter mobilization is critical to getting people to vote. But what is it?
Social media and other digital networks allows for a great reach of people at a low cost. Email, texts, and person-to-person contact are also other important mobilization tools. These help presidential candidates target teens for their vote.
In 2008, voter turnout surged among young people, in particular blacks—52% of 18 to 24-year-olds voted. Data shows that voter turnout rates are 15-30% higher among teens when they are mobilized.
Republicans historically have reached a larger number of teens than Democrats. However, the study found that 80% of all teens aren’t mobilized by either party.
What can you do?
