A SAMPLING OF YOUR RESPONSES:
More students will vote.
Samyi, Walton
They should be allowed to vote people need all the help they can get to change what is going on in government today,the people against this must be worried about younger people voting
Steve Canterbury, Elkview
NO! NO! NO! This idea is absolutely ludicrous!!! First of all, there really shouldn't be that many 18 year olds still in high school so I can't see that this would be very cost effective. Secondly, some of those who are still there have obviously been struggling with their education so they would possibly be voters who could be easily influenced by those around them rather than putting a respectable amount of individual thought into making a decision. I think going to a polling place and casting that first vote is a rite of passage for many.....being old enough to vote is a thrilling moment. It should not be diminished by relegating it to school.
Tracy Mitman, St. Albans
The law says that when your 18 you are permitted to vote so yes we need more students to be intrested in politics.
Brandy Mossburg, Parkersburg, West Virginia
Eligible Students should be given the opportunity to vote at school,this will give theme easy access to the polling place and the opportunity to be good roll modles for those who may not be registered to vote.
Rhonda Ray, Walton
Yes i think it is a great idea. i graduated last year and found it extremely hard to get to the polls on time
Zach Ashworth, Scott Depot
My first polling place was the grade school in my community. Often the polling place in the community is the closest school.Of course there will be advantages to the incumbents and to the candidates supported by the teachers unions. The greatest advantage is to start them voting early.
Larry Kapp, Leon
That would be a wonderful idea, especial for the college students who can't always come on in time for the voting. I say yes, do this now!
William Smalley, South Charleston/Huntington, WV
This favor the dems and they know it.
Bob, Charleston
I know I am underage to vote but still.When you 18 you are considered an adult,Right.So what is the point of being an adult if you don't have the privlages other adults have.
Kayla Hinkle, Big Creek
Absolutely! Those teens are in a perfect place to be taught about the election and why not? I think it is a good idea.
Sheila Jude, Kermit
This is something our son as watched his dad and I do for years and has been waiting anxiously to join us at the Polls when he becomes 18. Still if voting is offered at the schools, he will give in to pear pressure and vote with his classmates. Schools interfer too much now with family special moments. Don't take another of those firsts away.
Debbie, Glenville
I think if they are old enough to die for their country,then they old enough to vote!
Earl Osborne, Fairdale,WV 25839
As long as the students are well informed about the issues and those running for office so that when they vote they know who/what they are voting for.
Jennifer, Charleston
If they are old enough to fight in a war, they are old enough to vote.
Cloyd Thorn, Parkersburg
There old enough to fight for there country,why not.
John Shue, Cross Lanes
Iat is great to encourage young people to vote but allowing one segment of our population (18 year olds) an easy way to vote would be wrong. What about our seniors? Do we need to allow them to vote at the senior citizens buildings? Besides the descrimination factor....The mechanics of making this possible would be a nightmare....Especially with in person absentee voting going on at the courthouse with no excuse voting already. How many different ballots would be necessary? It would open the door to more fraud. Good intentions....Bad idea....
Larry W Barker, Madison WV
We need to explore ALL secure options to make voting easier for everyone.
David Bennett, Winfield
After voting the students are likely to be a nuisance in streets and everywhere since they now have belief that they are adults.I mean to do some different businesses than going back to school
Florence Ushe, Harare
This would be wonderful, as long as they are legally registered, and the voting is monitored by honest election officials. We need younger voters to cast their ballots.
Warnie G. White, Danville
As long as the voting does not interrupt the student's class schedule and our schools don't turn into political free for all's, I think it would be an encouragement to students who might not otherwise have the ability to get to the polls on election day, to be able to vote during regular school hours.
Cate Brown, Summersville, WV
This is the perfect way to get the students interested in politics, have them research the canidates before hand and then follow them through the campaign. then they could make a vote on their findings
Rose Hughes, South Charleston
No They should learn to go to the poles like all other people, Lets don,t start giving them special treetment, at that age.
Bill Brown, Alum Creek
They should vote in their own district the same as everyone else. There may be a potential for coersion from teacher to require them to vote. If you don't have enough interest in voting to go to the polls like everyone else, you should not be voting in the first place.
Yvonne Pund, Newburgh
Why not? Everyone else who is registed to vote is permitted to vote early, so why not give students who would not ordinarily vote go ahead and do so while they are on schoolgrounds--they wouldn't have any excuse not to otherwise.
Kathy Tolbert, Cross Lanes, WV
They should vote the same as any other citizen.
Mary, Charleston
i think that they should let them. If not 18 year olds may not vote any other time.
kenny nester, scott depot
As long as politicians don't occupy the school grounds at ANY time.
J Messer, Charleston
Yes, far too many Americans take voting for granted and then do not show up at the polls. I believe it will give the children a sense of pride to be able to vote, and possibly make the younger ones anxious to cast their first vote.
Carla, Charleston
I think this would be a good idea because it would encourage kids to vote and instill in them that voting is a very important process and a privilege.
Kathy Hanshaw, Coal Grove, Ohio
I think that is an excellent idea! I believe that should you come from parents who don't feel voting is important then this would help you realize how important voting is! My parents never mentioned it when I was growing up and I never voted or even registered to vote until I got married!
Cindy Cooper, Charleston
I think if an eligible student wants to vote, then by all means he or she should be permitted to do so. If it's not available to do in school, then the student(s) should be allowed to excused from school to go to a voting center.
Heather Jester, Ft. Leonard Wood
I would favor 18 year olds voting in schools IF they didn't close school on election day. They don't close school in Ohio for election day-- and they use school gyms for polling places-- why do we give the West Virginia teachers and staff the day off. I live in Ohio now, but graduated from Parkersburg High and always thought it stupid to close school on election day. It obviously doesn't get more people to vote seeing the poor showing at the polls. In fact the teachers might find it more convenient if they could just vote on their lunch hour like the students would be able to.
Doug Hess, Belpre, OH
But only if visits from incumbents are not held during school hours . . . if they want to give money to the school system, let them do so at a board meeting or after hours. Sen. Sprouse is correct. If Sen. Doe gives my school $50,000 for a project, then I may be inclined to vote for him without knowing any of the other issues or stances. If voting is allowed at school, there should be mandatory education on elections and the differences between the two party platforms. At least let the students make informed decisions - rather than voting just like their parents do. How many WV Democrats are there that oppose abortion and liberal social programs (for example), but register and vote Democrat because that's always how their people have been? Too many, I fear!
Ronna Dittman, Gassaway
I think that this is a great idea, it gives the young voters a feeling of importance. I think Vic Sprouse is looking at the wrong end of the horse, so to speak. Let's trust our youth. I know when I reached 18 yrs. old, I had enough self-respect and dignity to know who was right for the job, and I knew that no money-grubbing republican punched that hole for me. If we can trust the youth to fight our battles overseas, surely we can trust them to vote!
Jack Vance Jr., Delbarton
I agree with Joe Manchin. I graduated from George Washington High School last year, and I was part of a volunteer effort to register eligible people to vote. Almost everyone registered, including people who wouldn't have otherwise. If we got a turnout that high with registration, I think the same thing could be done with voting. I don't agree with Senator Sprouse's point of view. Many voters will vote at the school they attend anyway, as I did. What do school hours have to do with anything when it's often the same setting? Voting during school hours would encourage the process. Being around a lot of other young people who are voting could persuade some to perform their civic duty. Teens who don't have available transportation or have jobs could still vote. I think that young voters can think for themselves, and would make an informed decision, regardless of when they make it. Perhaps Senator Sprouse should show more respect toward his younger audience. I believe this is an excellent idea that should be seriously considered. There are plenty of good reasons that support it, and it could help with creating lifelong voters.
Shainna, Huntington WV
Why not? It will get them started voting. Most of their parents don't vote. They need to learn to be self motivated to vote.
Carolyn M. Owen, Charleston, WV 25311
WV needs to get out of the Good ole Boy system. Getting the youth involved in state govt. is a way to do that. Participation is never a bad thing. If we are allowed early access to vote so should the youth.
Mike McCallister, Huntington
Many young people may not vote otherwise, unless it is put right in front of them. It's a great way to get them started!
Scott B. Carpenter, Saint Albans
They already can vote during the early voting period just like everyone else. With the financial crisis looming over state government we should not be adding new services. Instead we should be looking for ways to reduce services and costs!
Rich Edwards, charleston
They deff. should.
Kayla, Poca
I belive that if a 18 year old want to vote to be and feel like they had a say in something important.Im 15 and personaly I cant wait to hit the voting booth when Im 18.
Selena,
I strongly agree with Vic Sprouse for many reason's. But one is many student's at Greenup County High School don't drive so they are unable to vote. So I think it would promote voting.
Jeremy, Wurtland
WHY NOT THE KIDS COULDN'T VOTE ANY WORSE THAN SOME ADULTS
CINDY, CHARLESTON
I believe its a great idea. Get students voting and let them know they have input into what happens in their State and Nation, as well as local Government.
Jonathan Austin, Saint Albans
Well mine is a maybe but truthfully as being a high school senior i know that the only reason most 18 year olds would vote or and student would vote during school hours is to get out of school so it may cause some of the students to stay lifelong voters but others look at it as a day out of school.
Ashlee Smith, Point Pleasant WVa
Sprouse is more concerned about for whom the students will vote than getting them TO vote. It's a learning process and should be tied to History/Civics for credit. All 18yr olds can vote now with the rest of us with a DAY OFF from school..but WILL they? Make it a part of the lesson plan.
Rochie, Charleston
Sure they should. It would be a great learning experience for them and I agree might encourage more people to be lifelong voters.
Marilyn Mullens, Whitesville, WV
Yes why not? It would encerage 18-yearolds to vote.
Alex Loftis, Belle
Unless the voting is done on the students lunchbreak or after school and conducted by sworn in elections officials and there is a campaign free school zone law implemented.
GARY, W.VA
It may help spark interest in the greatest right that we have in the world.
Steve Stasny, Craigsville, WV
I think more students would vote if they were given the time to do it during school. Otherwise they might not be as motivated to go on their own time. I for one agree with it and I am 20 and I know that going to vote often takes a lot of time; waiting in lines. I also think that there would be more descussion about the voting process and therefore students would learn more about the election process; and possibly have a clearer view on who to vote for.
Amber Lakey, Apple Valley
If you're going to do that, then why not let all state workers vote during the 15 day period and the state road workers, county workers, etc.
Karen, Turtle Creek
I think that if you encourage teenagers to make that first vote, they would think more about voting for years to come. I think if the schools embraced this idea, we would have more people voting, especially more young people.
Samantha, Charleston
As an 18 year old high school student, I believe it would be a wonderful decision to go with. I think it would encouraga many young people to vote and it would most likely halp them with the decision to vote or not. It's a great idea and I am all for it!
Pamela Cook, Charleston
Maybe this will get more kids to vote. All some may need is for someone to guide them and show them the way. What better place to do that other than school.
Brandi Moss, Charleston
Why not have a small simposium where there can be different views explored , not just from political figures ,but students who have studied the view this will teach them not only the importance of voting ,but the importance of really being up on the issues and following the prcoess along . Its unfair to assume that all kids that age are not interested in voting and politics that effect them I know when I was 18 I already was intersted in making a difference and if giving them an oppurtunity and the knowledge to vote I say do it It would be a good jump start on getting the youth to vote . It certainly will not hurt anything. The only way is up.
Lorie J, St. Albans
They are our future, the sooner they get involved the better. I was eighteen when I just started my senior year.I'm so glad I got the chance to be heard be heard it's a sense of responsiblity.
Gina Sanchez, Hacienda Heights
Would encourage voting, and set an example for the younger students
G Artrip, Huntington
I believe it could be a good avenue to create interest in and among young voters. When one looks at the issues debated in WV politics today, it is heavily slanted toward elder citizens. If this program can create a sizeable voter base among the young, it might force new and needed debate of issues pertaining to the state's future. However, there could be concerns about teacher (teacher unions) influence on a captive audience within the classroom.
Dana Ferrell, Charleston
I think they should do this and i also think they should goto the retirement homes and apartment buildings where the elderly and disabled live.I feel more of this group would vote if they were given more of an oppurtunity to vote. I know this bausew i work in an aprtment building for the elderly and handicapped.....i hear the people saying i cant get to the poles anymore and in this past election one of my clients went to vote and fell climbong the steps to the school. These buildings have community rooms that could be used as a polling place for the elderly and disabled....Thank you
Beverley Jones, Hurricane
I am a 18 yr. old student. I think that it would be a great idea. A lot more 18 years old would vote.
Autumn, Danville
I will soon be seventeen, but I will turn eighteen before the next presidential election. I completely agree with Sprouse. If more students were given the chance to vote during school hours, they will be a greater chance that they will ever cast a vote. Some students don't vote just because of the inconvienece of having to get out of the house.
Brandi Paige Dolin, Foster
Yes because it will help them get an idea how to vote and.Then maybe they will be life long voter's.
Ashley White, Logan
It would be great i think
Meredith, Charleston
I don't think they should be given special treatment but vote at the election booth like everyone else.
Beth,
The youth of today are more aware and ready to take their stand. This would give them a better chance to exercise their right, since some of them would not get a chance to get to the poles.
Barbara Workman, Peach Creek,W.V 25639
I think that every american should have the access to be heard. Voting is one way that our young adults can learn and start particapating in the voting process.
Teresa Chapman, Sylvester, WV
Then they can be encouraged to vote every chance they get. Also be able learn and to express their fillings of who they want to win.
Amy Walkup, Whitesville,WV
I think that they should because it might make them do it everytime a election comes up.
Allison, powellton
Anything that helps get the future leaders of tomorow involved in the world around them is definately a good idea!
Elizabeth Gibson, Hurricane
Part of the voting thing is to get out on the day to do it! You'll just have a bunch of extrememly uninformed people doing stuff like that.
Sarah, Sissonville
Yes, because students that have the day off from school don't get up till noon or after. Then they have things planned to do durning the day, so really they should pass that to give the kids a chance to vote.
Amy, Elkview
18 year olds have the right to vote, when they're at school, it doesn't change the matter.
Ben Bush, Ripley
Sure, Why not it may engourage eighteen year olds to vote! I don't see a problem with it.
Terry VanKirk, Ravenswood
i think we should be allowed to vote because alot of kids dont get the chance to do that when they turn the legal voting age,yea i think we should
Malerie Lovejoy, Hamlin
This is a wonderful idea. Many young adults are nervous about going to the polls and not knowing how to vote. I believe this would definately ease the nerves.
Deedee Samuel, Marmet
First time voters would be more likely to vote if it were that convenient, increasing the percentage of voters.
S Tunstead, s.charleston
And 18 year old is legally classified an adult, therefore should have to vote at a local voting precinct, just like everyone else, special consideration should NOT be given to him or her because they are still in school. Besides, voting precincts stay open long enough that they can get there to vote.
Robert R. Coleman, Iaeger, WV
They have 15 days to vote, how convenient do we have to make it for people to get them to vote? Too apathetic to vote? Your opinion probably isn't an informed one anyway. Let's not cheapen the right to vote by bringing it to people like it's breakfast in bed. I for one can see why the liberals are always behind this type of thing, like provisional voting on campus: They LOVE young voters because they're easy to fool with a little smoke and mirrors. Next they'll want to punch the card for them too - wouldn't want them to be inconvenienced over deciding for themselves who's the best candidate. Why, that would disenfranchise the indecisive!
Mike Sanders, Coolville, Ohio
I believe all voters should vote at the alotted time. Voting is an honor and should be address as such. 18-year-olds should be encouraged to practice their new found freedom by arriving at the polls and casting their votes in a election atmosphere and hold their heads up-high. I am an American and I voted as a proud citizan always will vote.
Bobby Cline, Racine
Yes, It is always good to get our children of the future involved!!!
Blanche Green, Dawes
I'm afraid this would start politions to take school time to get students to vote for them. poitions have done enough harm in our public schools already.i send my kids to school to learn how to read and write and to learn math but the politions are trying to teach my kids that it's ok to be gay and if my little girl get pregant then someone will help her get an abortion without my knowing.they're trying to teach that compition is wrong and may hurt someones feeling. what kind of thought process is this? when young adults enter the work force are they to think that it's wrong to try to be better than another employee? how do you get promoted? you wouldn't want to do better work than the people at another company would you? thanks to polical correctness we are making our kids lazy instead of teaching the basics and awarding a student for doing the best at everything that he or she can. these policy makers will be the same ones that will also be getting the votes fro! m unknowing students.
Jeffrey Walker, Scott Depot
I agree they would be encouraged to cast a vote and learn more about becoming a lifetime voter. i wish we had the chance to do that when we was going to school.
cynthia sharp, charleston
No, this should not be allowed. I was a SHARES ambassador for Joe Manchin at St. Marys High School. I remember when we were registering people to vote they would ask me what party Sec. of State Manchin was in and they would register for his party because he had just spoke at our school. I think Joe is trying to get as many votes as he can because he has his eyes set on the governors mansion.
Craig Pritchett, St. Marys
I waited till I was 21, and they can wait two weeks.
Gary, Beckley
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