Young people should learn the facts and then vote In 2000, 36 percent of registered 18- to 24-year-old voters exercised their right to vote. The national average was 60 percent. Since 1972, this age bracket has shown a steady decline in participation in the election process. The facts speak loudly. With no voice of opposition in the political theater, politicians craft policies that will severely impact today’s young voters. Does the average 19-year-old realize that Congress has begun to quietly consider legislation that would reinstitute the draft? Does the average 19-year-old realize that they will not have Social Security at the age of 65? Or that health care will cost significantly more than what their parents are paying today? This year’s election is incredibly important for young voters. Unfor-tunately, few are interested with how policies crafted today will impact our generation when we look to buy our first home, raise our children or consider retirement. Whether Democrat or Republican, the Monmouth County Young Democrats urge young voters everywhere to educate themselves on the presidential, county and local elections, and then exercise the right to vote. More information is available at monmouthcountyyoung democrats@yahoo.com Dan Reilly Vice President Monmouth County Young Democrats Belmar