What is the minimum voting age established by federal law?

The minimum voting age established by federal law is 18 years. This standard was set by the 26th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1971, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States who are 18 years of age or older based on age. The amendment sought to ensure that young adults, particularly those who were being drafted into military service during the Vietnam War, had a voice in the democratic process. Thus, anyone who is 18 or older is eligible to register to vote and participate in elections, aligning with the principles of equality and representation.