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A Students Demand Action volunteer smiles while taking a selfie with their mail-in ballot
Volunteer Stories

Four First Time Voters Share Why They’re Voting

Our Students Demand Action volunteers have been educating their peers on the importance of voting—and even helped to register over 100,000 young people in the lead up to the election. Now many of them are making their voices heard by casting their ballots for the first time ever! Four Students Demand Action volunteers who are also first-time voters share why they’re voting—and why you should too.


Lily, 18, Connecticut: Voted by Mail

How would you describe the process of voting?

It was so easy and rewarding.

Why are you voting?

Not only is it my right and responsibility, but the rights of so many people are at stake in this election. It would be selfish and irresponsible not to.

What makes voting for the first time such a monumental experience for you?

I have been shaping my views and developing my opinions about the things that I believe in for a very long time, so to finally be able to exercise my right and get my voice heard is so refreshing. It is so crazy to me that now that I have cast my ballot, my decisions and views are actually influencing government.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about voting for the first time?

DO IT!! It is so easy to do, but make sure that you are educated on who is running in every election. Although this is the year of a presidential election, that is not the only election that is happening. There are very crucial House, Senate, and state legislator elections this year. Even if you are not familiar with the candidates in your district, a quick Google search can tell you all about their stances on the issues that matter to you and can make you make an informed decision.


Ella, 18, Massachusetts: Voted Early

How would you describe the process of voting?

It was a very quick and easy process. My heart was pounding with excitement that I was a part of our country’s future and was making a difference. I felt strong and empowered walking out.

Why are you voting?

To get Donald Trump out of office.

What makes voting for the first time such a monumental experience for you?

Every vote counts and having even a little impact on the future of many groups of people and their rights is all I could ask for.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about voting for the first time?

PLEASE DO IT! Your vote counts. Use your voice.


Kelsey, 19, Oregon: Voted by Mail

How would you describe the process of voting?

Super easy! I felt so excited to finally get a say in our future.

Why are you voting?

I want to vote for people who don’t get a chance.

What makes voting for the first time such a monumental experience for you?

I’ve been waiting for years. Plus I am a woman and part of the LGBTQ+ community, so I want my rights to not be taken away.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about voting for the first time?

Do it! It’s so easy and your voice matters.


Lindsey, 19, New Jersey: Voting In-Person on Election Day

Why are you voting?

I have been dreaming of voting since I understood the concept of voting.

What makes voting for the first time such a monumental experience for you?

This is something I’ve always looked forward to and since it is a critical election it holds extra weight. We need a president who is responsive to the American people and will unify us instead of allowing persistent hate.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about voting for the first time?

It’s important to exercise your civic right to vote. Not doing so is privileged and undermines the rights of many who do not have institutional opportunities to vote.

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