Every election morning, Andrew Ferson would rise a little earlier than usual, joining his father on their walk to the polling office before school. Inside, while his dad cast his vote, Andrew would stand by, soaking in the importance of the moment. A routine that would shape his understanding of civic duty long before he was old enough to mark his own ballot. 

It was no surprise that as soon as he turned 18, Andrew registered to vote. His first election carried an extra weight of significance—his mother’s name appeared on the ballot, running for Town Hall. Casting that initial vote wasn’t just a rite of passage; it was a symbolic gesture, honoring his family’s deep-rooted commitment to democracy while signaling his own entry into the political process.  

Recent data show that approximately 35% of eligible voters in the United States do not vote in the general elections. This figure can vary slightly depending on the specific election year and the type of election (presidential, midterm, local). According to usafacts.org, 66.8% of the voting-eligible population voted in the 2020 presidential election, the highest in any presidential election since 1992. In California, 65% of eligible voters cast their ballots. Despite this notable increase, Ferson, who is now the Director of Policy at the Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE), emphasizes that “more people need to turn out.” 

“I understand why many people might feel hesitant about voting, especially when it seems like a big effort or when they wonder if their vote really makes a difference. It can be tough to see how choosing a president might affect your daily life, and feeling under-informed can make the process seem daunting. However, voting is the one voice we all have to shape the direction of our country, and not taking that opportunity means missing out on having a say in important decisions,” he said. 

Elections aren’t just about presidential races; every ballot includes local races and issues that directly impact our communities on a day-to-day basis.  “Just because you might not feel as invested in one race doesn’t mean you shouldn’t vote. There are many issues on the ballot that affect you, so why wouldn’t you want to be a part of that?” he says. “I want our representatives to genuinely represent the people they’re meant to serve, and that only happens if we all vote.” 

According to the PEW Research Center, white Americans tend to vote more consistently than Black, Hispanic, or Asian Americans. For instance, among those eligible to vote in 2018, 2020, and 2022, 43% of White voters participated in all three elections. In contrast, only 27% of Black voters, 19% of Hispanic voters, and 21% of Asian voters took part in all three elections. 

Additionally, Hispanic citizens were the least likely to vote in any of these three recent elections, with 47% not voting in any of them. This compares to 36% of Black citizens and 31% of Asian citizens, while only 24% of white citizens did not vote in any of these elections. 

Ferson emphasizes the importance of voting in all types of elections, not just the presidential ones. Local elections, in particular, provide the most opportunity for people to directly influence their communities. Votes carry more weight at the local level because representatives are directly accountable to the community and can address issues more immediately. By voting, you choose who represents your interests and hold them accountable once in office. If they fail to meet your community’s needs, your vote gives you the power to elect someone who will. 

“It is important to remember that they are there to serve you, and if they’re not fulfilling that promise, vote to get them out. You want people who are going to advocate for you,” says Ferson. 

How do I Register to Vote? 

September 17 is National Voter Registration Day, a nonpartisan civic holiday dedicated to celebrating our democracy. Since its inception in 2012, over 5 million Americans have registered to vote on this day.  

Catalina Gallego, a 19-year-old college student, recently registered to vote for the first time. “I grew up hearing my parents and grandparents talk about the importance of voting and saw them always go to the polls. Their example instilled in me the value of exercising my right to vote,” says Gallego.  

Although there are several ways to register, Gallego found it convenient to do so online. “The registration process is quite simple and straightforward and requires only basic information that is easy to provide. Once you have filled out the necessary details, you simply click the ‘submit’ button, and a confirmation message will appear on the screen. You also receive a confirmation email that verifies the completion of your registration,” she explains. “It took me less than 5 minutes.” 

To get started, visit vote.gov. Select your state or territory, as each has its own registration rules. The website provides detailed instructions for each option. While most states offer online registration, you can also register by mail or in person at your local election office. 

You can register to vote at any time, but deadlines vary by state or territory. For specific details, visit vote.gov. In California, for the November 5, 2024 election, online registration must be completed by Monday, October 21, 2024. If registering by mail, your envelope should be postmarked by October 21; and the deadline for in-person registration is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. 

To register to vote in California, you must meet the following requirements:  

• Be a U.S. citizen. 

• Be a California resident. 

• Be at least 18 years old by Election Day. 

• Not currently serving a prison sentence for a felony conviction. 

• Not deemed mentally incompetent to vote by a court. 

“Voting is crucial because it allows your voice to be heard as a citizen,” Gallego says. “It’s a civic responsibility that helps ensure the government addresses the needs of its people. If you don’t vote, you miss the chance to express your opinions and influence where improvements are needed.” 

Like all California voters, Gallego will receive her ballot by mail. “I will most likely sit down with my parents to discuss the races, cast my vote, and mail it in,” she adds. 

As the election approaches, remember to make your voice heard. Voting is one of the most powerful ways to shape your community’s future. Don’t miss your opportunity—register and vote on Election Day!