Vermont Town Grants Voting Rights To 16- And 17-Year-Olds

A sign is posted at Brattleboro Union High School suggesting students register to vote during a voter drive at the school, Feb. 14, 2024, in Brattleboro, Vt. 16 and 17-year-olds in Brattleboro will ge

A Vermont town, Brattleboro, with a population of 7,500, has recently made a significant decision to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local elections. Those who will turn 18 by the November general election will also be permitted to participate in the state's presidential primaries on Super Tuesday. This move aims to engage young voters in the democratic process and empower them to have a say in local governance.

The change to the town's charter required legislative approval, which faced initial resistance from the Republican Governor. However, the Democratic-controlled Legislature eventually overrode the veto, enabling more teenagers in Brattleboro to exercise their voting rights and even run for the primary governing body.

While the voting age has been lowered in some other states for specific elections, Brattleboro's decision marks a significant step towards youth inclusion in the electoral process. The initiative has garnered support from young individuals like Silas Brubaker, a 17-year-old high school senior, who believes that young people are well-informed and deserve a voice in shaping their community's future.

Youth who will turn 18 by November can participate in state presidential primaries.

Brattleboro, VT permits 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local elections.

Legislative approval was needed to change the town's charter.

Efforts to lower the voting age have been ongoing for years, with advocates like Rio Daims, who worked on a youth vote campaign at the age of 16. The recent development in Brattleboro reflects a growing recognition of the importance of engaging young voters and fostering civic participation among the youth.

As the town prepares for the upcoming local elections, the enthusiasm among teenagers to participate in the democratic process is evident. The voter registration drive at the high school has seen a significant number of teens signing up, indicating a strong interest in being part of decision-making processes.

By granting voting rights to 16- and 17-year-olds, Brattleboro is not only empowering its youth but also setting an example for other communities to consider similar measures to enhance youth engagement in local governance. The inclusion of young voices in the electoral process is seen as a positive step towards building a more inclusive and representative democracy.