That happened Feb. 5.

According to CIRCLE (The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement), the under-30 voter turnout in California jumped from 13 percent to 17 percent of total votes cast.

This may not sound like much, but it was an increase of nearly 300,000 young people. Since only 29 percent of those eligible voted, that one percent rise makes a big difference. The youth of California should be proud.

And it’s not just California. Iowa’s youth vote tripled, going from four percent in 2004 to 13 percent this year, an increase of 40,000 young adults. New Hampshire’s youth vote shot up from 18 percent to 43 percent, one of the highest in the nation.

Later primaries followed suit, compared to 2004. Louisiana and Massachusetts doubled their youth vote. Florida, Georgia, Missouri, and Oklahoma tripled theirs. Incredibly, Tennessee youth turnout quadrupled. On Super Tuesday alone, over 3 million young people voted. Combine this with an overall rise in all voter rates, and what we have is an increase in the civic health of our nation.

This is an incredible way to start 2008. We at the Oak Leaf are impressed. Whether it is presidential candidates, issues, “Rock the Vote,” “Vote or Die,” or a heightened sense of civic duty, something has happened in our nation to make the youth come out and vote.

We pledge to keep this torch blazing. Americans will select a new president. Somebody new will be taking office. With these turnouts, people can make an impact on our government. If we all stand up for what we believe in, the government can better represent the people.

Those who voted in the primaries, make sure to vote again. Those who didn’t vote, register and get to your polling station this November. Make sure your voice is heard. November 5 is the most important day of 2008. Instead of 20 percent, let’s see more young voters make their voice heard. We will see you there.

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