Colorado Teens Engage in Politics Before Voting Age
Despite being under 18, Jewish students are canvassing and advocating for policy changes ahead of the 2026 election.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Judaism
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Jewish teenagers across Colorado are actively participating in the political process through canvassing, phone banking, and meeting with officials. Though they cannot vote, these students aim to influence key policy areas including education and antisemitism.
Why it matters
These students seek to shape public policy outcomes and encourage broader electoral participation among their peers. Their work highlights how young activists utilize grassroots engagement to affect legislative agendas before they reach the legal voting age.
Colorado law requires voters to be at least 18 years old, a threshold solidified by the passage of Amendment 76 in 2020. Students like 16-year-old Mila Nirshberg and 15-year-old Ronan Beale are currently involved in the political process.
The players
Phil Weiser
He is the Democratic nominee for governor of Colorado.
Victor Marx
He is the Republican nominee for governor of Colorado.
Jared Polis
He is the term-limited incumbent governor of Colorado.
Mila Nirshberg
She is a 16-year-old student participating in Colorado political activities.
Ronan Beale
He is a 15-year-old student participating in local civic engagement.
The details
Teenagers are engaging directly with political campaigns and local officials to advocate for specific policy proposals. By volunteering for efforts like phone banking, these students attempt to sway the trajectory of state politics, including the upcoming race for governor.
Timeline
2020: Colorado voters approved Amendment 76.
2024: Voters aged 18-29 participated in the presidential election.
November 3, 2026: Colorado gubernatorial election scheduled.
Culture Shift
This activism follows the strict age requirements set by Colorado Amendment 76, which mandates a minimum age of 18 for all electors. It reflects a broader trend of youth political engagement as students navigate their limited formal power by utilizing grassroots methods.
Residents should anticipate increased student involvement in canvassing efforts leading up to the November 3, 2026, election. These activists are prioritizing outreach regarding education and antisemitism, which may influence local policy discussions.
The takeaway
Even without the ability to cast a ballot, young citizens can still influence campaigns and policy priorities through active, consistent advocacy. Students interested in civic life should consider volunteering for local outreach initiatives to gain experience before becoming eligible to vote.
Further reading
Learn more about local community efforts at Colorado Judaism.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Jewish Telegraphic Agency.
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