Closed Primary, Open Stakes: Why Youth Registration Matters Now

Send us Fan MailYoung voters have stepped up to the plate, and in 2026, their voice will be more important than ever.In this episode of Burn the Talking Points, Executive Director Karen Darkes sits down with Jocelyn Nolasco, Vice President of the Young Democrats of Maryland, and Connor White, Data Manager for the Maryland Democratic Party and Vice President of Membership for the Young Democrats of Maryland.Together, they break down what Maryland’s closed primary means for young voters, and why so many who are registered unaffiliated risk being shut out of the Democratic primary.From data on youth registration trends to real strategies for getting involved, this conversation highlights what’s at stake, the issues driving young Marylanders, and how this generation can step into its political power.If you want a say in the future, it starts with being registered and ready!Be sure to hit that subscribe button to stay up to date with Burn the Talking Points. Be sure to follow us on social:facebook.com/MarylandDemocraticPartyInstagram.com/MDDemsx.com/mddemsbsky.app/profile/mddems.bsky.social