Do you think that the low levels of voter turnout in the United States are problematic?

Question

What steps might be taken to increase (informed) participation?

Answer 1

Its a fatal mistake Americans are making in some ways by not partaking! But on the other hand most everyone is aware that there is NOTHING legitimate about the political/voting system from the start, justifying the apathy. I still vote & do not believe for one second my say in democracy is recognized! I want majority rule & control by the legal citizens starting with Money/Power/Wealth! Their is a mob of the wealthy buying & selling every level of government to keep them on top! Is it they don't care or they feel its not effective, maybe both.

Answer 2

Yes, that and the low levels of intelligence and high levels of ignorance. Not all americans it just seems like a lot of them. Seriously, low voter turnout is a problem because you may not be getting a goverment that is accurately representing the wants and needs of the population. Campaign finance would also be a big issue in terms of electing a governement that actually represents the people instead of who gave the party/candidate the most donations.

Answer 3

It's not just the US that has a problem with low voter turn out. People are starting to realise that it matters very little as to what party or politician is in charge. We are all at the mercy of money. That is what controls. That is what really makes the decisions.
If you want more and better participation then people need to feel they are actually doing something and making a difference. That they can actually affect change.
The only way to do that is to get rid of the power base that money gives to a privileged few and for us all to become socially responsible.
ABOLISH MONEY.

Answer 4

Yes, because at the simplest level, you can't change anything by sitting there and doing nothing. I'm all for people voicing their opinions, but they need to get out there and see those opinions through.

As for increasing participation, education is probably our only chance. The majority of people don't understand the issues on the table, the candidates, or how the voting process works, and ignorance leads to apathy.

Answer 5

Actually, I prefer low voter turnouts. Because those of us that actually take the time to understand the issues, and then go vote, should have the most sway.

Why should some uninformed voter, who the Party loads on buses and brings to the polls, and given suggestions on how to vote, have their vote counted as much as mine?

Answer 6

It is only a symptom of the problems.. and soon to be a mute point... unless... the corruption and intentional gerrymandering and disenfrancisment is outlawed with MANDATORY UNPARDONABLE PRISON SENTANCES.

In its duality, this sabbatage on our voting system and constitution is unamerican (and yet so very...)

Paperless Ballots... should be OUTLAWED. The paper trail proved Gore won (but the supreme court of sell-outs gave it to bush).

In general... the majority of society are a bunch of pudding-headed puppets who vote according to rumours, appearences, or "promises".

Answer 7

The problem is that WE the people are digested with our country's leadership. we want positive responsible leaders not west Texas mommas boys or scared of there shadow dupes in the White house. Give us someone worthy of our votes and we shall VOTE!

Answer 8

Don't even bother voting, because THIS secret and evil group has been in control of everything for far too long!...
http://www.rense.com/general58/suspre.htm

Answer 9

informed. has nothing to do with it, most of us americans just dont care, talk the game, but dont care, or are too fuc*** lazy to go out and vote.