2026 youth power agenda 🔥🗳️
At Next Up Action Fund, we believe youth have the right to participate in decision-making about the world we live in and the future they’ll inherit.
That’s why we’re leading Primary Elections for First Time Voters, or SB 1574—our priority bill for the 2026 Legislative Session.
Primary Elections for First Time Voters (SB 1574) would allow 17 year olds who will be 18 by the general election to participate in all major-party primaries, ensuring we create the next generation of life long voters.
This is our moment to make history. Lawmakers are listening—but only if we speak up.
Please fill out the quick form below to send an email to your representatives to share your support for Primary Elections for First Time Voters (SB 1574).
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Key issues we’re supporting in 2026 . . . ✅
We have the power to organize for racial, gender, reproductive and immigrant justice—and win. Let’s come together to fight for our communities.
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VOTE 17
Senate Bill 1547
Youth have the right to participate in decision-making about the world we live in and the future they'll inherit.
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Immigrant Justice Package
Oregonians know that we are stronger together. When immigrant communities are targeted, our economy suffers, communities suffer, and critical systems are pushed to a breaking point. Leaders have a responsibility to protect children, stabilize health care, ensure equal access to justice, and defend against federal abuses of power.
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Anti-Hunger Package
Food for All Oregonians (FFAO) coalition's legislative priority is the Anti-Hunger Package, which is a set of policies that prioritize food access and support immigrant communities.
Primary Elections for First-Time Voters 🗳️
Primary elections are an integral part of the general election process as they directly narrow down which candidates will appear on the general ballot for each major party. Currently, 19 U.S. states allow 17-year-olds who are 18 by the date of the consecutive general election to participate in primary elections, but Oregon does not.
Oregon’s next step is simple: allow eligible 17-year-olds that will be 18 by the consecutive general election to participate in major-party primary elections. Anyone who is eligible to vote in the general election should get a say in nominating their party’s candidate during the primary election.
Voting early is proven to create lifelong voting habits and increase voter turnout. Evidence shows voting in the first election you are eligible for increases the likelihood you will vote in the next election by 50%. When voters have a say in the primary election, there is more incentive for them to partake in the general election.
Oregon is well-equipped to have a smooth transition to allowing 17-year-olds to participate in primary elections thanks to the state’s voter pre-registration program, that works in tandem with Automatic Voter Registration.
Plus, Oregon’s newly passed K-12 civics education standards will equip these first time voters with the knowledge necessary to vote—creating a more informed electorate coupled with SB 1574.
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