New Jersey to Allow 17-Year-Olds to Vote in Primaries from 2026

The New Voter Empowerment Act, signed by Gov. Phil Murphy, aims to engage a new generation of voters by expanding access to the ballot box.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed the New Voter Empowerment Act, allowing 17-year-olds to vote in primary elections if they turn 18 by the following general election.
The law, which will take effect from January 1, 2026, is seen as a way to expand access to the ballot box and engage a new generation of voters.
New Jersey joins 19 other states and the District of Columbia with similar laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
The legislation was passed mostly along party lines, with Democrats in support and Republicans opposed, though a handful of GOP members voted for the measure.
Despite the new law, 17-year-olds will miss participating in this year's competitive senatorial primary for Sen. Bob Menendez's seat, the presidential primaries, and the 2025 gubernatorial race.