The New Power of the Youth Vote

Possibly the biggest surprise of election night 2012 was the strong turnout of voters 29 years old and younger. Many, especially Republican strategists, expected them to vote at about their 2004 level, making up 17 percent or less of the electorate – but definitely less than the high of 18 percent turnout in 2008 when they mostly voted for Barack Obama. Instead, their 2012 share of the electorate went up to 19 percent nationally and 20 percent in Colorado (up from 14% in 2008).

They voted for Obama by 60 percent, down slightly from 66 percent in 2008 according to the national exit poll. But, the 60 percent was more support than any other age group.

Obviously, having a fifth of the electorate regularly voting 60 percent in favor of the Democratic presidential candidate is a major asset.

But, possibly even more significant is the liberal views of the under 30 group that helped propel recreational marijuana legislation in Colorado, gay marriage in several eastern states and Governor Brown’s tax initiative in California.

The younger are more liberal and more diverse:

• 66% favor gay marriage vs. 45% of voters 30 years old and older
• 73% favored Colorado Amendment 64 – legalize marijuana. It passed by 55%.
• 65% voted for California Proposition 30 – tax increase. It passed by 55%.
• 18% Hispanic (U.S. 10%), 17% Black (U.S. 13%), 9% gay (U.S. 4%) (exit poll)

This group has the power to reshape the political landscape if they maintain their political involvement.