 For those of you who are just turning 18 and were only three or four when I was elected, my name is Barack Obama. I was the 44th President of the United States, and I have the best jump shot in White House history. I've heard a lot recently about how voting doesn't solve everything, and I can see why you might think that. It won't make Outer Banks or Euphoria Season 3 or Ariana's new album drop any faster. It won't make sending gifts any less cool. Wait, gifts aren't cool anymore? Anyway, it won't even help you understand the most complicated questions in the universe. Like, why do I know so much about Pete Davidson's dating life? But here's what voting does do. It allows you to make your voice heard on the big issues, and it reinforces the incredible work you've done between elections holding your leaders accountable. Two years ago, more young people voted than in any other election since the 1970s, and because you did, the direction of the country changed. Look what's happened since. Billions of millions of Americans received life-saving vaccines. We made the biggest investment in history to fight climate change. We've forgiven billions of dollars in student loan debt, and we finally released that huge report about aliens. Oh, sorry, I mean unidentified aerial phenomenon. I think these are some pretty good reasons to vote, but I don't need to tell you that there's a lot more that needs to be done. Here are five issues that depend on your vote. 1. A woman's right to choose In five states, abortion protections are literally on the ballot. 2. Gun safety. We have a chance to put in place common-sense gun safety laws, but we need your help to do it. 3. Schools. Local and state officials help determine the history our students learn and the books they're allowed to read. So do your research. We know you have the skills. Who knew there were so many secrets on the New Taylor Swift album? I think I'm on to something. 4. Immigration. A lot of politicians don't actually know how to build a better immigration system, so instead they use refugees as props and play on fears. Look for candidates who are actually trying to solve the problem. 5. Climate. We need elected officials who think climate change is real and are willing to fight for our future. And of course we need to do everything we can to protect our country from the folks who are willing to undermine our democracy in order to win an election and who want to deny you the right to vote. I know a lot of you care about these issues more than this kid loves corn. So prove it. Ensure you're registered to vote at vote.org slash Obama. And then go vote. Our future depends on it.