In the 2024 presidential elections, of the voter-eligible population, which got a higher percentage of the vote: Trump, Harris, or Did Not Vote?
2024 36 % Did not vote 32% Trump * 31% Harris
Critical Analysis
Special thanks to Mr. Jeff Bateson from Chatham Charter in beautiful Chatham Country, North Carolina for sharing this infographic from Carolina Forward.
Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, your big brain, and your knowledge of American government and politics:
In the 2024 presidential elections (see above in red), of the voter-eligible population, which got a higher percentage of the vote: Trump, Harris, or Did Not Vote?
How many times since 1976 has a U.S. president gotten more votes than the number of eligible voters who did not vote?
What president got the largest percent of the eligible vote since 1976?
Which presidents got even fewer votes than the candidate they defeated?
What year were non-voters (did not vote) the highest percent of eligible voters?
The typical eligible voter who does not vote looks something like this: younger, less educated, and has a lower income than those who do vote. In 2024, Americans ages 18–29 accounted for 28% of nonvoters, but only 14% of voters. In 2024, non-Hispanic white adults made up 72% of voters but only 46% of nonvoters. Almost half of nonvoters in 2024 had a high school education or less, compared to about a quarter of voters. Over half of nonvoters in 2016 had an annual family income under $30,000, which was double the rate among voters. Why do you think so many eligible voters don’t vote?
There are many reasons eligible voters don’t vote: Political disillusionment: Many nonvoters feel that the political system is not working for them and that voting does not make a difference. Lack of representation: Nonvoters often believe that no candidates truly represent the interests of working- or middle-class people. Distrust of the system: A lack of trust in government and voting systems, often following concerns about fairness and transparency, contributes to voter abstention. Lack of engagement: Nonvoters are less likely to follow political news and feel less informed about candidates and issues. Systemic barriers: Logistical challenges such as registration deadlines, transportation, childcare, or lack of time can prevent people from voting, though nonvoters typically cite detachment more than difficulty. Describe a change to the American voting system that would increase the percentage of Americans who vote in elections?
The data above is about eligible voters, identify two things that could make someone ineligible to vote in the U.S.
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.
“With our current technology we should make voting as easy as banking at an ATM or banking on our phones.” Explain whether you agree with this statement.
Write and Discuss
Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.
Act on your Learning
Register to vote. Please, while you still can. You can still register to vote online and it will take only 2 minutes. If you will not be 18 by the next election, find someone who will be and get them to register to vote.
Get Creative
If I wanted to get eligible non-voters to vote I would probably get The Rock or Jason Momoa to run for office. Describe the ideal candidate to attract the typical non-voter.
