Should the U.S.A. Have Mandatory Voting?

Should Voting Be Compulsory in the U.S.?

The episode examines whether the U.S. should require people to vote. Compulsory voting is used in about 22 countries. Skipping an election can result in a fine and, in some cases, further penalties. Strong enforcement is associated with higher turnout and, according to a study cited in the program, greater political knowledge.

Voter Turnout in the U.S.

U.S. turnout is comparatively low. In the 2016 presidential election, 55.7% of eligible voters cast ballots. Turnout is lower among young people, people of color, and low-income groups. In non-presidential election years, more than half of eligible voters may stay home.

The program places the U.S. 26th among 36 developed democracies in the OECD. It also highlights weak participation in local elections: mayoral turnout is below 15% in 10 of the country’s 30 largest cities.

Why People Don’t Vote

Some people face practical obstacles, such as transportation challenges or complicated registration rules. Others feel their vote will not matter, are disillusioned with politics, or choose not to participate as a form of protest.

The speakers caution that low turnout is especially concerning when some groups are more likely to vote than others, potentially skewing whose preferences are represented.

Arguments Against Compulsory Voting

Opponents argue that the right to vote may include the right not to vote. Forcing participation without addressing disenfranchisement or other barriers could burden people with penalties rather than resolve the causes of nonparticipation.

The program also notes that even countries with mandatory voting do not achieve 100% turnout. Some people may remain unlikely to participate regardless of incentives or reduced barriers.

Making Voting Easier

Rather than mandate voting, several contributors favor measures to reduce barriers, including:

• Providing online registration in every state
• Allowing voters to cast ballots at any polling center within their state
• Offering same-day registration to eligible voters with ID
• Holding elections on weekends instead of weekdays

They argue that registration deadlines and Tuesday voting reflect outdated practices that no longer suit many voters.

One contributor describes voting as an important exercise of political power, particularly for young people, and argues that staying home is surrender rather than protest.

Presenters and Contributors

• Toussaint Morrison: Host
• Scratchy the Eagle: The program’s statistics character
• Other contributors: Interviewed election-law and political-science experts and an elected official whose names are not given in the subtitles