During the Democracy Day 2026 press conference, the ALL IN for Democracy coalition presented new findings on the challenges faced by young voters in Indiana. Data collected by ReCenter Indiana and Count Us Indiana through surveys and focus groups of Hoosiers under 35 indicate that while many young people are interested in politics and policy, they encounter significant obstacles to voting.
The research highlighted a lack of accessible voting options, confusion about various voting methods, and other barriers as main reasons why young Hoosiers did not participate in the most recent election. Jalyn Radziminski, Executive and Lead Policy Director of Count US IN, said, “Our fellows surveyed young voters ages 18 to 35 in over 14 counties, capturing what matters most to them. While many shared feelings of anger and exhaustion with a broken system, the data shows something powerful: most young voters still plan to vote in the upcoming primary and want to stay engaged beyond just casting a ballot.”
Jocelyn Vare, Executive Director of ReCenter Indiana, added, “ReCenter Indiana conducted a research study of registered voters ages 18–34 who were registered but did not vote in the last election. Our research shows young adult non-voters care deeply but feel their vote doesn’t matter. They want their voices heard, more convenient voting, and genuine candidates who address issues that matter to them.”
In response to these findings, members of the ALL IN for Democracy coalition urged state lawmakers to consider changes that would make voting easier for all eligible residents. Julia Vaughn, Executive Director of Common Cause Indiana—a nonpartisan grassroots organization focused on democracy and voter rights advocacy—said: “This latest data reinforces what we have already seen in other sources – voting in Indiana is harder than it should be. The Indiana General Assembly isn’t responding to what Hoosier voters want and need to become consistent, regular voters. It’s time they finally listen to the people and enact changes that allow all eligible Hoosiers an easier voting experience and the opportunity to impact our state’s future through civic participation.”
Common Cause Indiana operates as part of a national network with chapters across more than 25 states (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/). The group works statewide across every congressional district advocating for open government and equal representation (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/). Its activities include lobbying for reforms such as campaign finance transparency and redistricting improvements (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/), mobilizing supporters for advocacy efforts like rallies or election protection (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/), collaborating with legislators from different political backgrounds (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/), providing services centered on government transparency (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/) as well as achieving local milestones such as redistricting reforms in areas like Bloomington and Monroe County (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/).
Founded in 1970 as an affiliate of a national nonpartisan group dedicated to advancing democratic reforms (https://www.commoncause.org/indiana/), Common Cause Indiana continues its work fostering accountable government throughout every congressional district in the state.
