Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris sparked excitement among students during a visit to Alabama State University on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
At the school, she delivered a forceful message about youth voting power and civic responsibility. Speaking to a packed audience, Harris encouraged young people to see their ballots as tools for accountability, telling students they should expect tangible outcomes from elected leaders in exchange for their support.
“We are going to chart a course for what we want out of our country,” Harris said. “We have to be active in demanding it, and one of the ways we do that is through our vote. And I’m okay with you being transactional about your vote. I’m okay with you saying, ‘If I vote, I expect something in return.’”
Push for Youth Voter Participation
Harris’ appearance coincided with a voter registration drive on campus, aimed at boosting participation among young voters — a demographic that historically votes at lower rates in U.S. elections.
During her remarks, she highlighted the gap between registration and turnout, noting that while only about one in 10 young people voted in the last major midterm elections, nearly nine in 10 registered young voters typically go on to cast ballots.
“Don’t ever let anybody take your power,” she told students. “Part of honoring the ancestors who fought for our rights is making sure we use them.”
Emphasis on Accountability and Civic Action
Harris also acknowledged frustrations among younger Americans, saying civic participation must go hand-in-hand with demanding meaningful change from leaders.
“We know everything hasn’t been good,” she said. “But we must stay active in shaping what comes next.”
She stated that voting is not just a civic duty but also a strategic tool for influencing policy, a message that resonated strongly with the enthusiastic crowd.
The visit was part of broader national efforts by political leaders and advocacy groups to energize young voters ahead of upcoming U.S. elections, where youth turnout could again play a decisive role.
