http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/youngvoter_1721.mp3
Missourians made history yesterday by turning up in record numbers to cast their ballots in the primary election. The 2008 Missouri primary set new records for voter turnout, surpassing 2004 totals by approximately 870,000 votes.
Turnout of one category of voters in particular shot through the roof. KSMU's Jennifer Moore has details.
The research group CIRCLE--which stands for The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement--tracks young people's involvement in public affairs. CIRCLE estimates the number of young people voting in yesterday's primary was triple that of the year 2000.
The group says about one fifth of all eligible Missouri citizens under the age of 30 participated.
Director Peter Levine says the trend of more young people voting is occurring nationwide.
Lavine added that there are three issues which appear to be top priority for young voters this election year.
Lavine attributes the increase in young voters to the spirit of this particular generation.
CIRCLE estimates more than 75,000 young people participated in Missouri's Republican primary and 114,000 in the Democratic primary. According to exit polls conducted during Tuesday's primary, young Missouri voters favored Democratic Candidate Barack Obama and Republican Candidate Mike Huckabee.
For KSMU News, I'm Jennifer Moore.