The Nonvoting Problem?Alleged problem: low voter turnout

in U.S. compared to EuropeBut perhaps not as much of a problem as we think

Real problem is low voter registration rates

Remember, voting is not the only method of participation

Change in ControlStates initially decided who could vote and for

which officesThrough various laws and constitutional

amendments, Congress has reduced state prerogatives 15th Amendment (1870)“Grandfather Clause” declared unconstitutional

191519th Amendment (1920)23rd Amendment (1961)Voting Rights Act of 196526th Amendment (1971)

National standards now govern most aspects of voter eligibility

Voter TurnoutTwo theories regarding declining

percentages of eligible adults who voteReal decline caused by lessening popular

interest and decreasing party mobilizationApparent decline caused by more honest

ballot countsSeveral causes probably contribute to a

real declineMore difficult registrationNo uniform national voting systemCalculation of turnout