What is the minimum age requirement for U.S. citizens to vote for President?

The minimum age requirement for U.S. citizens to vote for President is 18 and older. This is established by the 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1971, which specifically lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. The rationale behind this change was to ensure that young adults, particularly those who were being drafted for military service and fighting in wars, had the right to participate in the democratic process and vote on the leaders who make decisions that could affect their lives.

Voting is a fundamental right in a democratic society, and establishing the age at which citizens can participate in elections is crucial for ensuring that the electorate represents the views and interests of all age groups, particularly younger citizens. Therefore, the requirement that individuals be at least 18 years old reflects a recognition of their maturity and ability to engage in civic responsibilities.