Let 17-year-olds vote in primaries

I support Illinois House Bill 226, which would allow suffrage at age 17.

Most high-school seniors are not able to vote in state primaries but later become eligible to vote the general election. I find it unfair that the students can’t have their say in selecting the nominees.

Voting at 17 can be beneficial because at around that time, the students are learning about government and the voting process. They could apply what they learned to their first voting experience, which can increase the chance of them being lifelong voters.

There are 20 states (including Indiana and Iowa) who allow anyone to vote in state primaries if they are 18 and eligible by the date of the general election. Young voters have usually voted at low rates, but the bill’s passing could increase those rates and expand the electorate.

Angelica Palillo

Round Lake