Grassley to Moderate Youth Caucus 2000

DUBUQUE - In about ten months, Alex May and Kestrel Wright will step behind the curtain of the voting booth for the first time, mark the ballot and cast their choice for the next president.

Speaking from their government class at Dubuque Senior High School, the seniors are hopeful that the rest of their generation takes the time to vote in the first presidential election of the new millennium. But, the current trend indicates otherwise.

According to the Congressional Research Service, voting rates for young adults hit an all-time low in the last national election. If past trends hold, even fewer Americans in 2000 than the 54 percent that turned out in 1996 will cast their ballots for the next leader of the free world. The youngest eligible voters - ages 18 to 24 - claim the lowest voting rates.

To Iowa's senior US Sen. Chuck Grassley, the numbers reveal that the next generation of voters may not understand just how important they are to the political process - from following caucus frenzy to voting for president. As a result, he plans to host Youth Caucus 2000, a series of caucus discussions in five Iowa high schools next week.

"By hosting a mock caucus in the classroom, I hope to generate enthusiasm and interest among these high school students about politics," Grassley said. "The Iowa caucuses have made our state the launching pad to the White House, and I hope the newest generation of voters can get excited about an event that places Iowa on a national stage."

The caucus events will take place Tuesday, January 18, at Monticello High School, Dubuque Senior High School and Maquoketa High School and Wednesday, January 19, at Indianola High School and Newton High School.

Grassley will act as the moderator and the students will represent delegates and candidates. The caucuses will include a straw poll, debates and a final tally of the votes. (A complete schedule of events is attached).

For both May and Wright, the experience is a valuable one that can't be duplicated in a textbook. "For students who are able to vote, this event will help them gain respect for an Iowa tradition," May said. "Being one of the few caucuses left in America, we need to get more involved in the process."