Should the voting age be lowered?

1. 62

   Bud Gallantposted 14 years ago

   Should the voting age be lowered?
   
   In many societies people are expected to be subject to laws they have no influence over, not being permitted to take part in the political system that oversees those laws.   Should the voting age be lowered?

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2. 64

   DTrothposted 14 years ago

   Honestly, I think it should be raised to at least 21, the drinking age in most states...or even older.  I tell ya, there are a lot of young minds out there who are so impressionable, yet they don't take the time to do their "homework" and research what and who it is they are voting for.  They're easily lead by the nose into believing things that are simply not true.  For example, the recent "tweet" that President Obama sent out to mostly young people, making statements in this "tweet" that have been strongly confirmed multiple times as being out and out lies. 
   
   There are some very bright young minds out there who are very capable of doing the research they need to do to vote well and do what's best for all of us and our country, but seriously, most won't do that.  They're just too caught up in their friends and dating and partying to have the time to do a little simple reading.  Thank you, Bud, for a great question! (:

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3. 59

   Pintomanposted 14 years ago

   Absolutely not. I think the age of 18 should have a qualifier; serve in the military. 18 year olds can vote but they can't drink, I think that's pretty dumb. It's like saying; You're old enough to decide what's best for the country, but when it comes to living your own life; you aren't old enough. Most young people go with the flow too, most (not all) people don't really start following politics until they are older. Also, people should have some skin in the game, Most 18 year olds (other than those in the military) don't.

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4. 77

   BukowskiBabeposted 14 years ago

   No, I don't think so.  The electorate already seeks a rock star, American Idol president predicated on charisma rather than substance. It takes a certain level of maturity to wade through all of the political posturing. I respect the youth. They are our future, but I don't want  a sixteen year old deciding  who will be president. I discuss politics with my daughter on a regular basis, with an emphasis on objectivty. When she is of voting age, it will be her choice who she votes for.

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5. 84

   wychicposted 14 years ago

   Personally, I think the voting age should be the same age at which you're eligible for military service. The drinking age should, too -- I think it's ridiculous that in most of the US, at 18 you will have been driving for a couple of years, you can get married, you can buy a house, you can enter into any number of contracts, you can act as a power of attorney, and you can die for your country...but you're not considered responsible enough to drink.

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