48 Votes - Don't Waste One

Interesting Article: Pew Research Center: Voter Turnout 2018-2022

The average lifespan in the USA varies slightly based on demographic factors, but as of the most recent data (2021), the overall life expectancy is approximately 76 years (73 for males and 79 for females). This is slightly lower than in previous years, partially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Presidential Elections

In the U.S., presidential elections occur every 4 years. Assuming someone lives for about 76 years, they would have the potential to experience approximately 19 presidential elections during their lifetime.

However, the actual number depends on when the person becomes eligible to vote (at age 18). So if someone turns 18 and lives to 76, they could participate in around 15 presidential elections.

Midterm Elections

In addition to presidential elections, there are midterm elections every 2 years, which take place halfway through each presidential term. In a lifetime of 76 years, an individual could potentially participate in about 29 midterm elections, starting from age 18.

In summary, an American voter can potentially participate in around 15 presidential elections and 29 midterm elections in an average lifetime, along with numerous state and local elections.

As of recent data, there were approximately 168 million registered voters in the U.S. during the 2020 general election, out of a total eligible population of around 239 million people. Voter registration and turnout fluctuate slightly from election to election.

Here’s an overview of voter turnout in major elections from 2016 to 2022:

• 2016 Presidential Election: About 60% of the voting-eligible population cast ballots (around 138 million voters).
• 2018 Midterm Elections: The turnout surged to 50% of eligible voters, which was unusually high for a midterm.
• 2020 Presidential Election: The voter turnout was historic, with 66.8% of the eligible population voting (about 158 million voters).
• 2022 Midterm Elections: The turnout was lower than in 2020 but still high for a midterm, with around 47% of eligible voters participating.

Why Doesn't Every Eligible Person Vote?

Several factors contribute to why many eligible voters do not cast ballots:

1. Disengagement or Apathy: Some people feel disillusioned with the political system, believing their vote won’t make a difference or they don’t trust political institutions.
2. Barriers to Voting: Obstacles like strict voter ID laws, long wait times at polling places, or difficulty in accessing absentee ballots can prevent people from voting.
3. Lack of Awareness: Some eligible voters may not know how to register, where to vote, or miss key deadlines.
4. Scheduling Conflicts: Election Day falls on a Tuesday, a workday, which can make it hard for some to find time to vote, especially if they lack paid time off.
5. Voter Suppression: In some areas, certain policies or practices might be seen as restricting access to voting for certain groups (e.g., gerrymandering, polling place closures).
6. Felony Disenfranchisement: Many states restrict voting ri

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