Gen Z could shape the future of politics

First-time voters are living through history: a presidential election during a global pandemic and a time of division.

For much of Generation Z, this is the first time they will cast a ballot. Hisham Qutob, a first-time voter, views this as an opportunity to shape the future of American politics. He sees the current pandemic as being a game-changer in this year’s election.

“Tensions due to COVID more than ever that really just put everyone on edge and changed the status quo, so I really do this it’s a revolutionary election,” said Qutob.

The younger generations may understand the importance of voting, but their numbers at the polls do not show that. In 2016, only 43% of people between 18 and 24 voted, compared to 70.5% of voters aged 45 and up.

Nick Moore feels that social media has caused waves, which have prompted a political movement among young voters.

“I would like to think with all the outreach to young voters and the importance especially with the rise of social media and twitter kind of galvanizing I would like to see a higher turnout for young people,” said Moore.

Fresno County has about 154,000 voters in the Generation Z bracket, more than any other age group. They could make a big impact during elections, but only if they make their way to the polls at high rates. In recent elections, they have been the group least likely to vote.