At what age must citizens be to vote for President?

Study for the Wisconsin Civics Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In the United States, including Wisconsin, citizens must be at least 18 years old to vote for President. This age requirement is established by the 26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1971. The amendment was enacted to extend voting rights to younger citizens, recognizing that by age 18, individuals are considered adults with legal rights and responsibilities, including the ability to serve in the military.

This voter age minimum promotes the idea that those who are most affected by government policies, such as young adults entering the workforce and participating in society, should have a voice in electing their leaders. The choice of 18 specifically was a landmark decision aimed at increasing democratic participation among younger generations. Other age options, like 16, 21, or 25, do not align with this constitutional standard and reflect outdated eligibility criteria, which do not apply to the current voting laws in the United States.

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