How young Canadians intend to vote this federal election

CTV’s Jeff Keele has more on the younger vote in the federal election and what it looks like in Manitoba.

Julia Mora, 18, is on her way to vote for the first time.

“I think it’s nice to have a voice,” said Mora.

While she’s excited to cast a ballot, she and others her age say their peers aren’t flocking to the voting booth.

“I don’t think enough, I really don’t think enough,” said Mora. “I know some of my friends aren’t, and I’m trying to encourage them to. I think it’s important.”

Historically, it’s tougher to get younger people to the polls in Canada compared to other age groups. Andrew Enns of Leger said not even half showed up four years ago.

“Last election, 2021, less than 50 percent of voters under the age of 35 had gone out to vote,” said Enns.

An online survey by Leger asked 18- to 34-year-olds if they plan on voting and 64 per cent across Canada answered definitely yes. Enns said that’s lower than older age groups.

When looking at Manitoba and Saskatchewan respondents, the numbers are even lower.

Forty-six per cent said definitely yes, 27 per cent said probably yes, 17 percent replied probably not, and eight per cent said no, I won’t.

“I’m not seeing a response of that young adult voter that says they’re going to turn out in droves.”

Diana Habeeb, 28, and 34-year-old Elliott Spooner just advanced voted.

“Based on my friends group, they just think the old people should vote,” said Habeeb.

Spooner said he grew up in a family that encouraged voting.

“With the way the world is going, you got to get out there, you got to exercise your franchise,” said Spooner.

Habeeb said that sentiment rubbed off on her as she hasn’t always voted.

“I regret not voting when I was younger,” said Habeeb.

Leger also asked young voters to list the obstacles preventing them from voting. Thirty per cent said there were no obstacles, followed by they don’t feel their vote counts, and misinformation online.

On the issues, Leger found that younger voters are concerned about inflation, tariffs and housing.

Spooner believes because of the issues facing Canadians, turnout among his demographic will be up come April 28.

“From what I’ve been seeing on the news, there’s been a record so far in the early vote,” said Spooner. “I think that’s going to translate into an increased youth vote as well.”