Something big is happening in our democracy - young people are voting.

• In 2004, 20.1 million 18-29 year olds voted, up 4.3 million votes from 2000.  More 18-29 year olds voted in 2004 than voters over the age of 65.
• In 2005, turnout in hotly contested college student precincts in New Jersey and Virginia increased 15-19%, even though turnout for other age groups decreased.
• In 2006, 18-29 year old turnout increased by 2 million votes, while turnout among voters of all ages just moderately increased. Young people were a big factor in tight races in states like Connecticut, Montana, and Virginia.

The evidence also shows that when politicians talk to young people, we will vote even more. In 2006, turnout was six times the national young adult average in college-based precincts that were targeted with youth get-out-the-vote programs. And in the close CT 2nd District House race, Congressman Joe Courtney credits his win to his unprecedented youth outreach program.

Young people are going to vote in 2008. Presidential candidates will be well served by targeting young people. Not just with big smiles and empty rhetoric, but with substance, engaging us in conversations about the issues we care about.  Issues like global warming, college affordability, health care, and financial security.

These are critical issues, and we’re the generation who will be most affected by them. So we’re not waiting for the candidates to come to us - we’re going directly to them and asking one simple question: “What’s Your Plan?” To stop global warming. To make the dream of a college education affordable for all Americans. To provide effective, affordable health care. And to give every young American a shot at being a financially secure adult.