Allegheny County High Schools Host Voter Registration Drives This Week

In Pennsylvania, approximately 81,400 18-year-olds remain unregistered to vote, a significant concern given that the margin of victory in the 2020 presidential election was only 81,660 votes. The Civics Center, a nonpartisan organization, highlights that high school students are registered at lower rates compared to older demographics, despite showing high turnout rates when they are registered. As of September 30, only 48% of 18-year-olds in Pennsylvania were registered, compared to 81% in Michigan. To address this issue, several high schools in Allegheny County are conducting voter registration drives this week, with events scheduled at various locations. The registration deadline for Pennsylvania is October 21, making these drives crucial for encouraging young people to participate in the electoral process. The Civics Center aims to embed voter registration as a regular activity in high schools, recognizing that many students do not pursue higher education and may miss out on college-based registration opportunities. The organization, led by Laura W. Brill, emphasizes the importance of engaging students in the voting process early, as four million young people turn 18 each year. With competitive elections, the number of newly eligible voters can significantly impact election outcomes. The initiative seeks to create a sustainable model for voter registration that can be replicated across schools nationwide. Ultimately, the goal is to increase youth voter registration and participation, ensuring that young voices are heard in the democratic process, especially in a state where many are currently unregistered.