The Internet has had a significant impact on increasing youth political participation and involvement. Nearly half of youth aged 18-29 get political news from the Internet, and nearly 30% get involved in politics through social media sites. Politicians now use websites and social media to advertise and engage youth voters. Youth voter turnout reached over 50% for the first time in decades in the 2008 election, with young people making up 18% of total voters—enough to decide the election outcome. The Internet has made youth more engaged in campaigns and politics overall, and increased youth political participation is important for democracy.