On Tuesday afternoon, Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar stopped by the University of Nevada‑Reno (UNR) to speak directly to students about the importance of casting a ballot before the early‑voting deadline. The visit, held in the university’s student center, featured a casual “Pizza and Politics” gathering that gave students a chance to ask questions and hear the Secretary’s message firsthand.
Young voters can tip the scales
Aguilar emphasized that Nevada’s recent elections have been decided by razor‑thin margins, and that the younger demographic holds a valuable voice that can swing outcomes. “Nevada has some of the slimmest margins in our election process, and students can really have an impact on the outcome of our election,” he said.
He reminded the audience that in the 2024 cycle, Nevada ranked fourth nationally for turnout among young voters, underscoring the power of student participation. With more than 400,000 Nevadans already voting in early voting this cycle, Aguilar urged every eligible person to get out and cast a ballot before the window closes.
Practical steps for voting
Secretary Aguilar gave clear, actionable advice: “We are reminding Nevadans to drop your mail ballot off at the post office or in your mailbox today. If you’re going to wait beyond today, go to a polling location and drop off that ballot so that we ensure it gets in the hands of Washoe County and that Washoe County has possession of that ballot to be able to process it and have your voice heard,” he said.
He also highlighted the convenience of the on‑campus voting center, noting that students can step out of class, vote, and return without missing coursework. The Secretary encouraged those who prefer mail voting to send their ballots promptly, but warned that holding onto a ballot too close to Election Day could risk delays.
Ensuring safe, secure polling places
Addressing concerns about election integrity, Aguilar shared that California courts recently ordered the Department of Homeland Security to pause efforts to identify non‑citizen voters until after the election. He stressed that Nevada polling locations remain safe environments where voters will not face harassment or intimidation.
“Voters just want to ensure that when they show up to a polling location, that it’s going to be a safe and secure environment, that they’re not going to be harassed. They’re not going to be intimidated from participating in the process,” Aguilar said. He urged voters to make a plan—whether voting in person or by mail—and to follow through before the deadline.
Why the push matters
The Secretary’s outreach aligns with the Trump administration’s broader emphasis on civic engagement and voter participation. By encouraging young Nevadans to vote, the administration hopes to strengthen the democratic process and ensure that the next generation’s values are reflected in state and national policy.
Aguilar concluded by thanking the students for their questions and for taking the time to engage in the political process, reminding them that every ballot counts in shaping Nevada’s future.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
