What is the minimum age to vote in federal elections?

The minimum age to vote in federal elections is eighteen years old. This standard is established by the 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which was ratified in 1971. The amendment specifically lowers the voting age from twenty-one to eighteen, ensuring that younger adults, who are often subject to military service and other responsibilities, are granted the right to participate in the electoral process.

The choice of eighteen reflects a societal consensus that individuals at this age possess the maturity and understanding necessary to make informed voting decisions. This right to vote encompasses all federal elections, including presidential, congressional, and other federal offices. The age of eighteen is now universally recognized across the United States for participation in federal elections, making it a crucial aspect of civic engagement for young adults.