What is the minimum age to vote in federal elections?

The minimum age to vote in federal elections is 18 years old, which is established by the 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution. This amendment, ratified in 1971, was enacted to ensure that citizens who are 18 years of age or older cannot be denied the right to vote based on age. This was a significant change, as it allowed younger citizens, who could be drafted into the military, to have a voice in the electoral process. The age of 18 has become the standard for federal elections, and similar laws are applicable to most state and local elections as well.