Why is the level of voter turnout vitally important in elections?
When voter turnout is low, it's not truly representative of all the people. People who are passionate about a candidate or issue ALWAYS turn out to vote. Those who are less interested often don't, and so are not represented in the final tally. Sometimes, if more people vote, the results might be different.
The level of voter turnout is vitally important in elections because it directly impacts the legitimacy and representativeness of the chosen leaders and policies. When voter turnout is low, a small segment of the population can have a disproportionate influence on the outcome, which may not accurately reflect the will of the majority. On the other hand, high voter turnout ensures a broader participation and a more inclusive democratic process.
To understand why the level of voter turnout is important, we can consider the following points:
1. Democracy and Legitimacy: Elections are the cornerstone of democratic governance. They provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their representatives who will make decisions on their behalf. High voter turnout brings more legitimacy to the election results as it demonstrates widespread participation and shows that the chosen leaders have a stronger mandate from the people.
2. Representation: Voting is a way for individuals to have their voices heard and influence political decisions. When voter turnout is low, certain demographics or issues may be underrepresented, leading to a lack of diversity and inclusivity in decision-making. High voter turnout ensures better representation of different perspectives and interests within a society.
3. Accountability: Elected officials are more likely to be accountable to their constituents when voter turnout is high. They are aware that their actions will have a direct impact on a larger portion of the population, making them more responsive to their constituents' needs and concerns.
4. Policy outcomes: Voter turnout affects policy outcomes as well. When voter turnout is low, special interest groups or highly motivated individuals can have a greater influence on the outcome. This can potentially lead to policies that primarily benefit a specific group rather than the broader public interest. High voter turnout, on the other hand, helps ensure that policies reflect the broader needs and aspirations of the population.
To track and gauge the level of voter turnout, various methods can be employed, such as analyzing voter registration data, assessing voter participation rates in previous elections, and conducting surveys or exit polls. These methods help provide insights into the degree of civic engagement and can guide efforts to promote and increase voter turnout in future elections.