As the 2024 election comes up, the once existing feeling of excitement to choose the future president is no longer there. Since the presidential election was first held, voter turnout has been consistently in the low 60 percent, in some years it is as low as 50. It feels as though because aspects of the election can be predictable, people feel as if they know what’s going to happen before it actually does.
Even though every election is different, there are always similarities in outcomes. Based on what state you live in, most people are able to infer what color their state will end up. Besides the few swing states, the election can be fairly predictable in some areas. Oftentimes even in swing states, pre-election surveys give a rough theory on the color of the state.
Due to this reoccurring outcome, people no longer feel the need to vote. When surrounded by so many other people, assumptions that other people will vote are very common. What most people don’t realize is that such a large group of voters do this, and the result is voting percentages at only about 66 percent. 66 percent may seem like a lot in theory, but when compared to the amount of eligible voters in the U.S, it is very low. On top of that, the amount of people registered to vote has actually decreased since the last presidential election.
If you’re conflicted about voting or registering, there are some important things to consider. For starters, voting is a crucial part of democracy; the political foundation in which our country is built on. Democracy is what allows citizens to have a say in the government that runs the country. It’s essential for citizens to participate in elections to ensure that their voices are heard.
This year during the Illinois primary election, there was a record low in voter turnout. Only 19.07 percent of the state participated, this number doesn’t even include unregistered voters. These numbers predict that the overall presidential election will also have a record low turnout, unless people start voting.
Despite what you may think about the current system, sometimes just a few votes can change the results. In certain swing states where the color can go either way, all votes are crucial. Your vote does have power in the election.
As we approach the 2024 election, Nov 5. is your chance to vote. To find out more about where/how to vote, click here. As you’re waiting in line, just remember how much of an impact you’re making with just a single vote.
