Politics is the foundation of a nation. Without politics, citizens would not be able to obtain different perspectives on any one topic. Seeing all possible sides of a situation is important in order to understand the most reasonable solution to a conflict. In a world where political division is established, effects are being perceived on the growing children and younger adults of this country. The younger generations are the future of the country; it is ultimately up to them to shape the nation into the best version of itself. This is why it is important for the youth to understand what politics truly is and what they can do to share their voice.
Politics refers to the activities associated with governing a country or area, especially the debate between parties having different powers. History teacher Katherine DeVillasanta said, “It is important that students have a basic knowledge of government so that they can be informed citizens who can engage in conversation and hold their own in a civil discussion of politics. Students who are well-versed in the functions of the government can formulate better opinions and make better decisions about ideal candidates who have their best interests in mind.” Especially in today’s world, the use of media platforms and AI can spread around misinformation. Having concrete background knowledge can prevent the potentially harmful effects of this incorrect information.
In recent years, a decline in political interest has formed within the younger generations. According to the Harvard Youth Poll, 2025, “Recent data reveals a generation that is more politically independent, lacks trust in major institutions, and is heavily influenced by financial struggles and social issues.” While many younger people may be vocal about their opinions, a drop in active political actions, especially from young adults who can vote, is being observed. This reduction has many causes and is already starting to show signs of its negative effects. Without the input of young adults, voter turnout rates have dropped. As these generations grow older and take over the political agenda, the government will have weakened accountability because low political engagement can make it easier for governments and officials to act without meaningful accountability from the younger segments of the population. Additionally, the current agenda focuses greatly on the older generations and adapting to their needs. If young people don’t voice what they need, they may not obtain it. Policies tend to merely skim over the issues most affecting the youth, such as student debt, climate change, and housing costs. Regarding the decline in political interest, government and Politics teacher Jenna Scott said, “I think the biggest misconception is that our system doesn’t work or is broken, and then they become apathetic to what’s happening around them. When people feel defeated or have a sense of what’s the point, that is one of the biggest dangers to democracy.”
There are actions that can be done in order to include the youth in politics and not just vocally but actively as well. The first step is to teach the correct information to these generations from a young age and to get them interested in taking action and using their voice. Devillasanta said, “I’d encourage students to be more active in their local communities. On a town level, students would be able to see how our citizens can be positively impacted by their presence and volunteerism. It is through involvement at a local level that students can see how their activism could impact what our communities might need, and they can be the change to improve the lives of many citizens. Maybe that evidence and sense of accomplishment would motivate students to seek out other ways of getting involved.” The next step would be to prove to these young Americans that they matter and can see results from participating. Scott said, “The more you participate in our democracy, the more likely you are to see the benefits of government policies. So for young Americans, it’s important to know what decisions are being made now that will impact their future.”
It is evident that the younger generations may, in fact, have an interest in politics. However, seeing the political division of today may be a factor in the decline in actions taken by the youth. Proving to these people that politics does not have to be about division and is necessary for the functioning of the nation can greatly impact the way these generations view politics.
