The 2020 election saw an impressive increase in voter turnout, particularly among young voters. According to young people interviewed in Merced, personal interest in political issues was a main motivator for choosing to participate in the election. “I feel like this election was a lot more than just voting for a president or voting for a political party. It wasn’t about being a Democrat or a Republican, it was really about life. It was about people’s livelihoods being affected and all these policies.” said Jessie, an 18 year old from Merced and first-time voter. To hear more perspectives from California youth, read the full story at We’Ced.