CIRCLE (The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement)
conducts research on the civic and political engagement of young Americans.
The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement

SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina key fact #1: In 2012, there are an estimated 711,000 18-to 29-year-old citizens eligible to vote in South Carolina;.1

South Carolina key fact #2: In 2012, an estimated 55.9% of young people in South Carolina cast a ballot. This is an increase from 2008, when an estimated 52.60% of young people in South Carolina cast a ballot.2

South Carolina key fact #3: In 2012, an estimated 63.8% of young people were registered to vote in SC.2

Below is more information on the youth vote by state:

18-to-29 year-old eligible to vote in the 2012 election

18-to-29 year-old turnout in 2012

18-to-29 year-old turnout in 2008 (most recent)

18-to-29 year-old turnout in 2004 (most recent election in which only one party had a competitive primary)

18-to-29 year-old turnout in 1996 (most recent in which only Republicans had a competitive primary)

South Carolina

711,000

55.9%

52.6% 46.4% 33.5%

Source: Current Population Survey (CPS) March 2011, Census Current Population Survey (CPS) November Supplement 2012

Historical Information about Young Voters in South Carolina (ages 18 to 29) from State Exit Polls (1996-2008)

2012

2008

2004

2000

1996

Young Voters Party Identification

Democratic Party

NA 44.14% 39.43% 31.95% 35.79%

Republican Party

NA 34.60% 39.19% 41.10% 45.69%

Independent

NA 18.01% 17.08% 20.81% 15.31%

Political Ideology of Young Voters

Liberal

NA 22.29% 19.60% 18.64% 16.28%

Moderate

NA 49.49% 47.01% 37.54% 45.38%

Conservative

NA 28.22% 33.39% 43.82% 38.33%

Vote Choice

Democratic Candidate

60% 55% 48% 46% 45%

Republican Candidate

37% 44% 51% 52% 47%

Other Candidate

3% 1% 1% 3% 8%

Source: State Exit Polls conducted by Voter News Services (1996 and 2000) and National Election Pool (2004, 2008, 2012). Data provided courtesy of Roper Center, University of Connecticut.

1. U.S. Census, Current Population Survey, 2011 March Basic Supplement

2. U.S. Census, Current Population Survey, 2008 November Voting and Registration Supplement>

*State data, and especially state exit poll results, are subject to sampling error and should be used with caution.

Longitudinal Graphs for Voter Turnout among 18-to 29-year-olds and 30+