Think about the upcoming election cycle. What is the likelihood that you will vote? Which party are you most likely to vote for?

Question

Drawing upon the factors discussed in the book, which ones are most relevant in assessing your own feelings toward voting and participation, and why?

Answer 1

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Identify that even with universal suffrage, a number of factors affect voter turnout, ranging from structural factors, such as state regulations, to personal choices.
2. Explain how factors such as income and education affect voter turnout, noting that people with higher levels of education and income have higher voter turnout rates on average. Apply these factors to your circumstances.
3. Explain how these factors influence which party you are most likely to vote for.
4. Describe the differences in voter turnout between racial and ethnic groups, noting which ones have higher levels of turnout.
5. Review the difference in voting behavior by age, noting that people over thirty are more likely to vote than those under thirty.
6. Explain how civic engagement and an interest in politics are more likely to lead people to vote.
7. Relate the previous points to your own feelings about voting and likely voting behavior.