There are a lot of questions among first-time voters when it comes to voter eligibility.
In order to vote, you have to register -- and for young, first-time voters this can become an obstacle:
"It's not that the students are not involved in politics, it's just that students have to register on time."
Philadelphia County voter registration administrator Robert Lee Jr. says they can pick up registration forms in person at state liquor stores, post offices, the DMV, or voter registration offices. He says you can also get Pennsylvania registration forms online, at www.dos.state.pa.us:
"If you fill it out and mail it, we usually get it the next day or two days later. And then we'll process it and you should get an ID card back in the mail from us within two to three weeks after you've mailed it."
Drexel student body president Jeff Gardosh says that when students don't know what to do, they don't register or vote in Philadelphia:
"They don't know that they can register in their dorms -- in Philadelphia -- and they can vote here. Also, you can get absentee ballots so you can vote here. You don't have to go back home."
Once you have your voter registration card, it's your responsibility to get familiar with the candidates. But one student admitted it's not easy for her:
"I'm sure I'm going to get in there (the voting booth) and know two names, and then look around and be like, 'Who are these judges? I don't know who that is!' "
You want to make sure you're prepared for both the primary and the general election:
(First-time voter:) "I've always sat there and been like, 'Who are you voting for, mom and dad?' But now it's me -- and I'm gonna make the difference this time!"
In Pennsylvania, voter registration is open until March 24th.
Regional Affairs Council reports are proudly sponsored by:
Regional Affairs Council Podcasts: Listen or Download
Youth & Politics: The Underage
In this expanded Regional Affairs Council interview on the youth vote, KYW's Ian Bush talks with an Interboro High School junior who won't be able to vote in 2008, but wants to play a role anyway. (14:32)
Youth & Politics: The Internet
In this expanded Regional Affairs Council interview on the youth vote, KYW's Ian Bush talks with Ray Murphy, co-editor of the blog YoungPhillyPolitics.com. (23:14)
High School Voters
High school is about as young as you can get when it comes to being eligible to vote. But not all high school students are lucky enough to be turning 18 this year. KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports on their efforts during this year's election.
The Underage
At two area high schools, politics are front and center. KYW's Ian Bush takes a look.
Political Party Efforts
So, what are the political parties doing to encourage the youth vote? KYW’s David Madden has this report.
Youth Issues
So what drives youth interest in politics -- and, as candidates hope, gets them to the polls on Election Day? KYW's Ian Bush reports:
Social Networking
If 2004 was the year of the Internet in politics, 2008 is all about social networking web sites. KYW's Ian Bush takes a look:
Relying On The Youth
Can candidates rely on the youth vote -- or is it more fantasy than reality? KYW's Ian Bush reports:
Politics and Youth
KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports one person who may know a little something about youth and politics is Pa's youngest current serving general assembly member.
Getting Youth To The Polls
The push to get young people to the polls is not just a national thing. Just ask newly elected Philadelphia mayor Michael Nutter. KYW’s David Madden spoke with two youthful political activists who helped get him there.
Voter Registration
KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports there are a lot of questions when it comes to voter eligibility.
History of the Voting Youth
The importance of the youth vote has grown in recent years. KYW’s David Madden takes a look at its short history.
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