Which amendment states that citizens eighteen years and older can vote?

The 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution establishes that citizens who are eighteen years of age or older cannot be denied the right to vote based on age. Ratified in 1971, this amendment was significant as it lowered the voting age from twenty-one to eighteen, reflecting a growing recognition that young adults should have a voice in the democratic process, especially during a time of conflict in Vietnam where many eighteen-year-olds were being drafted to fight.

This amendment is critical in ensuring that younger citizens have the opportunity to participate in elections and have a say in the political landscape, thus promoting broader civic engagement. The clarity and direct language of the amendment emphasize inclusivity in voting rights, reinforcing the principle that age should not be a barrier to voting.

Other amendments mentioned, such as the 15th, 19th, and 24th, address different aspects of voting rights, including race, gender, and taxation issues, but do not pertain specifically to the voting age.