Many millennials seem to have given up on government and their ability to create change. The vote of younger generations is imperative in the 2016 presidential election, as shown by the many appeals to millennial values by the candidates. This election needs the input of the younger generation in order to change the country into the one we want to live in for the next sixty years.

1. Our Divided Country

There are plenty of examples of the rhetoric of hate that is currently present in our country. Many political candidates themselves are examples themselves. This hate is splitting our country apart. We are supposed to be a country united under principles of freedom and acceptance, but instead many people are turning on other Americans because of religion and racism. The next president needs to be able to bring Americans together and remind us what we stand for.

2. The Environment

We have grown up learning about the destruction of our Earth in every science class in school. However, no significant changes have been made to prevent this devastating fate. As millennials,
we will be left to figure out how to deal with the consequences of the actions of politicians right now. Actions taken now by our future president can help to save our planet from the effects of our previous carelessness. You are not only voting for yourself, but for your future children and whether they will see the beauty in nature that you get to.

3. Cost of Education

As many millennials are college students, student debt is a pressing matter. The price index for college tuition increased nearly 80 percent from 2003 to 2013, while the average graduating senior who took out loans graduates with $28,950 in debt. Most students don’t enter college with the idea that they are going to spend the next 20 years trying to pay off the cost of their education. Some candidates are very focused on this issue and making sure every student who deserves to go to college can afford to do so.

4. Globalized Economy

It is no shocking fact that the U.S. is falling behind in the global economy and countries like China are taking the lead. The next president will determine for us if we keep in this pattern or if we change to take a dominant place in the world economy. As millennials, we need to find jobs when we graduate and have the right skills to compete against other countries. Having the right president is essential to our success in the future and success as a country.

5. Reproductive Rights

More women than ever are attending college and saving family for later in life. Access to birth control and family planning are important in making sure millennials get the life they want to have. The president can influence how we educate young people and their ability to practice safe sex. Increasing education and opportunity leads to a better general standard of living.