A new generation is raising up. The 2018 Midterm Election proved that young people are now actively involved in politics and White Station students are furthering that trend by participating in national elections and taking the time to vote.

Around 100 seniors at White Station spent election day working at polling stations checking IDs, operating the voting machines and helping put signs outside the precincts.

“I had a good experience working the polls,” Virginia Lang (12) said. “I was able to learn more about the election process, which was really interesting. I didn’t realize beforehand how much work goes into working at a precinct.”

Erica Sugarmon gave her United States Government classes a choice about how to get involved: volunteer for a campaign or write a research paper.

“Most of them chose to campaign for the candidate of their choice, and typically the relationships they developed, not only with their peers but the candidates and the people involved in the process, is very meaningful because they can see exactly what it takes to be a candidate and what it takes to win,” Sugarmon said.   

Many young people were excited to have the opportunity to vote and let their voices heard.

“That [voting] is the only thing I was looking forward to besides buying a lottery ticket,” Zoe Woody (12) said. “I was looking forward to becoming a part of society, and it made me happy that I could vote in this election because I felt strongly about these issues.”

The turnout of young people in the midterm election was higher than in previous elections. According to The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University, the turnout of voters, ages 18-29, for the 2018 Midterm Election was 31 percent compared to 21 percent in the 2014 Midterms. That number will only continue to grow in the future as the next generation continues to use their voice.