Barack Obama ‘Introduces’ Himself to Gen Z in New Voting PSA Ahead of Midterm Elections [Video]

In response to Generation Z’s concerns that voting isn’t the most effective method for solving issues, Obama acknowledges that there isn’t just one correct answer but argues that it is still a necessary step to hold politicians accountable.

“Two years ago, more young people voted than in any other election since the 1970s,” he says. “And because you did, the direction of the country changed.”

Obama provided examples of how voting is important, from the COVID-19 vaccine, to how the most comprehensive climate change bill was approved, student loan forgiveness, and how the long-awaited report on UFOs and aliens was finally made public.

“I think those are some pretty good reasons to vote, but I don’t need to tell you that there’s a lot more that needs to be done,” he said.

In addition to those examples, he said that the government still has some work to do. He cites five critical concerns that he wants government authorities to fight harder for immigration rights, climate change mitigation, gun safety, and abortion rights.

The PSA insists that if Gen Z voters can find so many hidden messages in Taylor Swift’s recent hit album Midnights, they will do an excellent job of researching which candidates will fight for their values before casting their ballots in the critical midterm elections.

“I know a lot of you care about these issues … So prove it. Make sure you’re registered to vote at vote.org/obama and then go vote,” Obama concludes.

Andrea Hailey, CEO of Vote.org, said in a statement on Monday that “President Obama knows the importance of high turnout and robust civic engagement and has championed the right to vote and the urgent need for all Americans to be lifelong participants in our democracy.”

“In this critical midterm election, it is more important than ever for voters to stay engaged and make a plan to register and get out to vote on or before November 8. We encourage voters across the country to follow President Obama’s example and talk to their friends, neighbors, colleagues, and others so that all of us are ready and empowered to vote,” Hailey added. “Our democracy only works if we all are committed to taking part in its care.”

Young people have the power to change the direction of our country by voting in this election. Climate change, reproductive rights, gun safety—all the issues you care about are on the ballot.

Register to vote at https://t.co/d5gaMVbvSL and encourage your friends to do the same. pic.twitter.com/F5nWvo0XIO

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) October 24, 2022