A new era of leadership is beginning at the Democratic National Committee, and we have an urgent opportunity to ensure young voters are a top priority.

As one of the largest, most diverse, and most progressive voting blocs in the country, young people have been the backbone of Democratic victories — yet too often, our voices are overlooked when it comes to real investment in youth organizing.

In fact, in years past, the Democratic Party has invested mere fractions of what it raised and spent in real youth organizing – taking for granted the volunteer hours and contributions of younger members of the party. That has to change.

We congratulate Ken Martin on his victory as the next chair of the DNC, and implore him to listen to the voices of the people by investing more in the next generation of leaders. Add your grassroots power to our open letter below!

Congratulations on your election as Chair of the Democratic National Committee. Your leadership comes at a critical time for our party and our democracy, and we are eager to work alongside you to build a stronger, more inclusive, and more engaged Democratic Party.

Young voters have been the backbone of Democratic victories for decades. From turning out in historic numbers in 2020 to protecting democracy in 2022 and 2024, young people have repeatedly shown up to defend our values and elect leaders who fight for progress. Yet, despite this unwavering commitment, the Democratic Party has consistently underinvested in youth organizing and outreach.

That must change.

As you step into this new role, we call on you to commit to significantly increase DNC funding for youth outreach and organizing programs. Investing in young voters isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a winning strategy. When young people are engaged early, when our voices are valued, and when real resources are allocated to meet us where we are, Democratic victories follow.

For too long, Democratic leadership has relied on young voters without making the necessary investments to sustain our engagement. If we want to build a Democratic coalition that is diverse, energized, and prepared to win in 2026, 2028, and beyond, we need a serious commitment to funding youth voter registration, campus organizing, and outreach programs that bring new voices into the process.

We urge you to:

• Substantially increase funding for youth organizing within the DNC’s budget.

• Expand campus outreach and voter registration programs to ensure young people in every state have the resources to participate in our democracy.

• Build long-term youth engagement infrastructure that does not just mobilize young voters in election years but sustains engagement year-round.

The Democratic Party cannot take young voters for granted. Our generation is ready to lead, but we need the support and resources to make our impact even greater. We are calling on you, as the newly elected leader of our party, to make youth investment a top priority.

We look forward to your leadership and to working together to ensure that young people continue to be the driving force behind Democratic victories.

Sincerely,