The Problem
Elections have consequences, and low voter turnout means that important issues are determined by a limited group of voters. New York makes voting too hard for both young and older voters, for a few reasons. In NYC, where people generally have to walk to polling locations, the elderly do not always have easy access to polling sites, and the criteria for qualifying to vote by absentee ballot are stringent. Moreover, New York requires eligible voters to register at least 10 days before election day, which disenfranchises eligible voters each year, particularly young people registering for the first time. I want to form an intergenerational coalition focused on shared values, where young people and older adults work together to eliminate barriers to voting, harnessing the energy of Gen Z with the wisdom and experience of democracy-focused older adults.
