More than 80 percent of California youth say they are strictly adhering to social distancing guidelines and 2 out of 3 are concerned about lifting public health restrictions too quickly, according to a new poll the University of California released today (Sept. 21). This new survey of Californians ages 18 to 24 highlights a sharp contrast to the popular image of indifferent young people flouting public health guidelines. The eye-opening results reveal that more than two-thirds of those surveyed expressed concern about contracting COVID-19, and nearly as many reported “always” wearing a mask.
With the November general election just weeks away, the survey also found that California youth are more motivated to vote this year due to the pandemic (42 percent) and protests against racial injustice (45 percent). Additionally, as the status of the next U.S. Supreme Court justice remains unclear, one third of respondents said that the president’s ability to nominate new members to the Court made them more likely to vote. While belonging to a group that historically turns out in low numbers to vote, 3 out of 4 also stated they were registered to vote, and a majority shared strong support for vote-by-mail options.
“This survey confirms that California youth are paying attention to the issues of the day, and that they are motivated to shape the future of our country through action,” said UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D. “The University of California has always been committed to educating young people about the importance of voting. I am encouraged to see California youth are ready to exercise their civic duty this November.”
“California’s youth are active, engaged, and ready to cast a ballot in 2020,” said California Secretary of State Alex Padilla. “Not only are students rightfully concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic and racial injustice in the nation, this translates into motivation to participate in our elections. It is encouraging that survey results show students are already creating an action plan to vote this fall.”