The center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRLCLE) is a seven-year-old research organization dedicated to promoting the political involvement of young people. Its mission is “to get information to people in a way that is free and democratic,” says CICRLE research assistant Karlo Marcelo. The group would like youth to be able to cast an informed vote. Marcelo said the youth vote is on the rise. Turnout among voters 18 to 29 years old increased in the last two presidential elections. In 2002, 22 percent of young voters cast ballots and in 2006, 25 percent cast ballots. “Young people are starting to assert their political identity” says Marcelo. CIRCLE research shows that in past elections these voters supported the front runners and eventual winners. That trend is changing, as young voters are favoring candidates that address the issues that concern this demographic. “Students and young people are diverting from the winner’s ideology,” said Marcelo. In 2006, 26 percent of young voters were more likely to say they were independents compared to 18 percent of voters 30 years and older who said they were independents. “I do think young voters are more informed and passionate than the rest of America,” said0 Angela McDermid, a junior and international studies major.There seems to be the growing sentiment across all ages that the youth voice is an important. “It is important to vote because our lives will be directly impacted by the results. This is our future, and the election can determine many things that will affect life as we know it today,” said McDermid. CIRCLE, like other organizations is using the Internet to inform voters. “Participation in the vote shows that youth are following the elections and the Internet is a big help,” said Marcelo. Although they rely on online campaign information, young voters also tend to be skeptical. “I know the popular thing with candidates lately [is] using forums like MySpace and Facebook to attract young voters, but I personally find that really gimmicky,” said senior Kat Blasco. With all the information so readily available young people “are faced with a lot of bureaucratic barriers,” admited Marcelo. McDermid said students still “get most of their information through talking about the election to other students about various candidates.” College campuses are an ideal setting for passing and receiving information. “There is a strong correlation between education and voting. It’s hard to reach non-college folks,” said Marcelo. According to CIRCLE research, non-college young voters “have consistently voted at levels below college attending youth in both presidential and midterm election years.” He added, “It is becoming more and more important for young people, especially among students such as those at the University of Denver to become politically active. You can be a non-voter and participate in politics,” Marcelo said. Blasco shares in CIRCLES optimism for youth participation saying, “I am hoping more young people are going to vote in 2008. They’ll be a force for change.” *Taken from www.civicyouth.org