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Why this young Arizona Republican is so passionate about politics — even though he can't vote

In 2000, less than a third of 18- to 24-year-old Arizonans voted in the presidential election, according to Kids Count. In 2020, over half of Arizona’s youngest voters filled out a ballot.

Generation Z and Millennials grew up with a warming planet, rising inflation and an increased awareness of inequality. More and more, young people have been participating in the democratic process — even some who aren’t old enough to vote.

Gen Z is often categorized as a monolithic of left-leaning voters. But not every young person shares the same opinion.

This election season, The Show is bringing you voices from young Arizonans, beginning with Nico Delgado, a 15-year-old Republican.

Delgado describes himself as the driving political force in his family — he says the only reason his father and stepmother keep up with politics is so they can talk to him about it. He had a lot more to say, as well.

More stories from KJZZ

Lauren Gilger, host of KJZZ's The Show, is an award-winning journalist whose work has impacted communities large and small, exposing injustices and giving a voice to the voiceless and marginalized.