Bad Bunny urges Puerto Ricans to vote in November elections

Bad Bunny, a global reggaeton star, has taken a stand against voter apathy in Puerto Rico, urging young people to register and vote in the upcoming November elections. His call to action comes in response to alarming statistics showing that 75% of newly eligible voters under 21 have not registered, reflecting a broader decline in voter turnout that has persisted since 2012. This trend is attributed to a growing distrust in government institutions and significant population loss due to economic challenges and natural disasters. The artist's remarks were made during an interview with Puerto Rican YouTuber El Tony, where he emphasized the importance of voting as a means of protest against the current political situation. His statements resonated with many, leading to increased voter registration efforts on college campuses, despite ongoing issues like power outages that have plagued Puerto Rico since Hurricane Maria in 2017. Historically, Puerto Rico has seen high voter turnout rates, but recent elections have recorded lows of 55%. This decline is linked to a shift in political sentiment, with younger voters increasingly favoring independent candidates and new political parties that challenge the traditional pro-statehood and territorial status parties. The emergence of coalitions like Alianza de País reflects a desire for change among voters disillusioned with the established political landscape. Bad Bunny's advocacy highlights the critical role of youth engagement in shaping Puerto Rico's future, as he encourages his peers to take control of their political destiny and participate in the electoral process. His influence is seen as a potential catalyst for revitalizing civic participation among the island's younger generations.