We the youth have heard it before. “Young people should be involved in the election.” “It’s your future.” “You have a voice.” Of course we’ve always had a voice – but what’s making young people shout so loudly now?

For the first time ever, Delaware witnessed over 600,000 people register to vote in the general election – many of these young and first-time voters. More young people are voting, but youth participation goes far beyond pulling levers – to actually pushing people’s buttons.

Young Democratic Movement members Liz Richards and Mat Marshall may not be able to vote today – but that doesn’t stop them from going door to door and campaigning for local Democratic candidates as well as Barack Obama. “When I knock on someone’s door, they don’t expect to see me standing there.” Liz, 17, thinks her age may be an asset to her canvass. “Because I’m so young and I have such a strong opinion – it makes an impression on people.”

20-year-old Bill Rivers, a campaign staffer for the Republican candidate for Lt. Governor, Charlie Copeland, thinks the youth can bring new energy to campaigns – something he might need after going 36 hours straight of campaigning. “Of course, young people bring new energy and new enthusiasm to campaigns, and they can do crazy things like stay up all night. Young people are also drawn to enthusiastic candidates – something I think Charlie Copeland possesses. At the end of the day, you don’t necessarily want a young candidate, but one who shares your ideals.”

But first time voter Tim McBride, President of the Young Democratic Movement, thinks Obama’s youth and vitality may be driving the youth to participate more. “I think it’s both issue driven and personality driven…more young people are getting involved because the issues in this election are pertinent to them, but also because they can identify with Obama. He’s the Kennedy of our generation.”

-Stephanie Woods