7.2 Voter Turnout

Voter Turnout in the United States: Factors and Impacts

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

1. Identify factors that motivate registered voters to vote

2. Discuss circumstances that prevent citizens from voting

3. Analyze reasons for low voter turnout in the United States

Introduction to Voter Turnout

Voter turnout is crucial for a healthy democracy, yet many citizens participate infrequently in elections. Campaign managers focus on predicting voter turnout based on several influential factors, such as age, education, and income. Targeting the appropriate demographics during campaigns can ensure better allocation of resources.

Counting Voters

Calculating voter turnout begins by counting how many ballots were cast during an election. Different methods yield varying turnout rates based on the population considered:

• Total Population: All individuals residing in the country.

• Voting-Age Population (VAP): Individuals aged 18 and older, regardless of eligibility.

• Voting-Eligible Population (VEP): Citizens 18 and older who are eligible to vote.

• Registered Voters: Those currently registered to vote.

These calculations reveal varying narratives about voter participation. In the 2020 presidential election, 77% of registered voters cast ballots, equating to only 48.5% of the total U.S. population.

Factors That Motivate Voter Turnout

Campaigns often target regular voters, but they may also focus on eligible citizens who are not registered, especially in contested states. Factors influencing turnout include:

• Age: Older citizens (65-74) are more likely to vote (68%) than younger citizens (18-24), who have lower turnout (39%).

• Education: Voter turnout rises significantly with educational attainment. Those with college degrees vote at about 80% compared to 60% for those without one.

• Income: Higher income correlates with higher voter turnout. Approximately 80% of earners making $150,000 or more vote, while only 55% of those earning $25,000 do.

• Race: White citizens turned out at a higher rate (71%) compared to African Americans (63%), Asian Americans (59%), and Hispanic citizens (54%).

• Gender: Historically, a higher percentage of women (63.3% in 2016) vote compared to men (59.3%).

These motivating factors are crucial for increasing voter turnout, particularly in young voters, where organizations like "Rock the Vote" and "When We All Vote" encourage participation through cultural engagement and prominent supporter involvement.

Circumstances That Prevent Voting

Several barriers prevent citizens from exercising their right to vote:

• Compulsory Voting: Unlike some countries with mandatory voting, the U.S. has voluntary participation, leading to lower turnout.

• Restrictive Registration Laws: Laws requiring identification to vote can disproportionately affect minorities and low-income individuals, impacting turnout.

• Limited Polling Place Accessibility: Open polling places only on Election Day may cause difficulties for voters who juggle work, school, and childcare.

• Social Apathy: Some voters feel their participation will not influence the election outcome, particularly in states with a clear majority for one political party.

• Voter Fatigue: Frequent elections lead to reduced interest and engagement from citizens.

Analysis of Voter Turnout

From 2008, when a unique interest in Barack Obama inspired young voters, voter turnout rates varied greatly. For example, turnout among eligible voters aged 18-24 increased briefly in 2008 but dropped again in 2016.

Despite challenges, voter turnout in 2020 saw record participation rates, especially influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and extensive voter mobilization efforts.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors influencing voter turnout and the barriers that prevent participation is crucial for building a healthier democratic process. Recognizing these insights allows for more effective campaigning and encourages broader engagement from all citizens in the electoral process.

This lesson presents a comprehensive overview of the intricacies of voter turnout, examining key statistical data and social implications to prepare students for an informed discussion about electoral participation in the U.S.