There’s a widespread perception that young people don’t vote: and with reason. In the 2000 presidential election only 36 percent of eligible 18 to 24 year olds went to the polls, compared to almost 60 percent of all voters. But that age group also represents the front edge of the most populous generation to come along since the baby boomers. According to census figures, in sheer numbers almost as many 20-somethings are now voting as 60-somethings. Youth Voices reporter and newly-registered voter Antonia Washington decided to find out whether politicians are paying attention. This story was first aired on WAMU in June 2004. It was also remixed and distributed by Primary Sources.

There’s a widespread perception that young people don’t vote: and with reason. In the 2000 presidential election only 36 percent of eligible 18 to 24 year olds went to the polls, compared to almost 60 percent of all voters. But that age group also represents the front edge of the most populous generation to come along since the baby boomers. According to census figures, in sheer numbers almost as many 20-somethings are now voting as 60-somethings. Youth Voices reporter and newly-registered voter Antonia Washington decided to find out whether politicians are paying attention. This story was first aired on WAMU in June 2004. It was also remixed and distributed by Primary Sources.