The four generations of Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z are all distinct in nature as it relates to their characteristics, which are shaped by the American culture in which they were born. These generations as a whole also have different levels of political participation and political ideals. The purpose of this study is to examine how these differences correlate to voting behavior. The goal is to draw conclusions about the differences between voting behavior across generational lines, discovering patterns especially as it relates to motivations for voting. Through the use of a nationally representative survey, I was able to measure some of the motivations that might be instrumental in influencing members of different generations to vote. By combining this information with relevant research, I was able to come to the conclusion that Baby Boomers are highly motivated by civic duty to vote, and in turn they have had the highest turnout in several recent elections. Generation X and Generation Z did not reveal clear and consistent motivations. However, Millennials were the generation most motivated by social influence. Utilizing these motivations by generation could increase the efficacy of targeted campaigns and efforts to increase political participation
