In Knivsta, first-time voters make up eight percent of the electorate for the election in six months, according to preliminary figures from Statistics Sweden. The municipality ranks fifth among Swedish municipalities, following Danderyd, Lomma, Salem, and Ekerö. The rising share of young voters challenges parties to tailor their policies and outreach.
The Swedish election is set for six months from now, and in Knivsta, young voters will wield growing influence. Preliminary data from Statistics Sweden (SCB) shows that eight percent of voters in Knivsta are first-time voters. Only four municipalities exceed this: Danderyd at 9.2 percent, Lomma at 8.7 percent, Salem at 8.3 percent, and Ekerö at 8.3 percent.
Maja Wahlberg, a first-time voter, responds enthusiastically: “Are we one of them? That was cool to hear.” Young voters in Knivsta express wishes such as focusing on dental care, allowing everyone to stay if they have done nothing wrong, providing more jobs, allocating more funds to Gnaget, increasing CSN allowances, and creating additional employment opportunities.
The proportion of first-time voters has risen since the 2018 election, alongside growth in the over-80 group and a decline in those aged 65–79. This shift challenges political parties to emphasize youth-oriented policies and improve outreach to this demographic.
Harriet Swanberg (S), opposition group leader in Knivsta, notes: “We probably haven't been very good at that before, so it will be somewhat new.” The Moderates highlight their success as the largest party in the 2022 school elections. Thor Övrelid (M), opposition councilor, adds: “It is a challenge to reach young people in a commuter municipality like Knivsta, but then it is important to pursue a policy that young people see.”
The national average for first-time voters is 6.5 percent, with the lowest in municipalities like Sotenäs at 3.9 percent. The figures are preliminary for the 2026 election.
