Non Voting
AP Government and Politics
In the 2016 election, what was the #1 reason registered voters did NOT vote?
Can you blame them?
How accurate was your prediction?
How sad is this information?
What most surprised you about this data?
What trends (change over time) do you see in the chart?
What do you think explains that change???
What is a consequence of so many people disliking the candidates?
The data above is about registered voters, how different do you think this information would be for people who had not bothered to even register to vote?
Explain any connection between the data above and the following: presidential honeymoon, presidential approval rating, low voter turnout.
Why on earth would political parties pick candidates who are so disliked to run for president?
Is there anything about the American system of presidential campaigns that might attribute to the tremendous dislike of presidential candidates?
Gore Vidal famously wrote, “Half of the American people have never read a newspaper. Half never voted for President. One hopes it is the same half.” You may have heard of newspapers, they are the internet for old people. Explain whether you agree with Gore Vidal. I mean do you want non-voters to vote? Really?
In your opinion, is there ever a good reason for non-voting?
In the 2016 election, 3% of registered voters "forgot to vote!" What the what? Are you glad these folks didn't vote?
Do you plan to vote in the first presidential election you will be eligible to vote in?
Learning Extension
Read the entire Non-Voting Pew Report and impress your friends!
Action Extension
Register to Vote
