Should voting rights match a person’s legal responsibilities?

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Lowering the voting age - Standpoint image

Some people think voting rights should match legal responsibilities. They believe that if you’re old enough to follow the law, work, or pay taxes, then you should also be allowed to help choose the leaders who make those laws. To them, it seems fair that if you have responsibilities, you should also have rights.

Other people think voting isn’t something you earn by being more responsible. They believe everyone should have an equal voice just because they live in the country and are affected by its rules. In their opinion, your vote shouldn’t depend on how much money you make or how many responsibilities you have everyone’s vote should count the same.

Most countries choose a middle ground. They let people vote once they reach a certain age and are citizens. They don’t try to measure how responsible each person is. Instead, they focus on keeping voting fair and equal for everyone who qualifies.

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