With the 2024 election coming up soon, the idea of mandatory voting has become a topic of discussion. I believe that voting should be mandatory for everyone over the age of 18.
There are many reasons why someone may feel as though they are unable to vote, whether it be for larger elections such as the presidential election, or even local elections. However, with the mail-in ballots being easier to use than ever before since the COVID-19 pandemic, those who can vote are able to have their voices heard even if they cannot afford to miss work to visit voting booths or afford transportation.
Mandatory voting also makes it so the election results better reflect the views of the people. According to Shane P. Singh, a professor in the Department of International Affairs in the School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Georgia, “It not only increases and equalizes turnout; it also makes voters more engaged and politically astute.”
When deciding whether or not to vote in this upcoming election, make sure to remember that you have the ability to make a change in this country.
Many countries have included compulsory voting in their policies for years, including Belgium, which was the first. Of course, there are exceptions: those under the age of 18, those who are illiterate, those who are over the age of 70 and others depending on the nation.
When determining whether something should be considered mandatory, we also have to look at the effects that it may cause. According to Samuel Strom, J.D., a legal writer, compulsory voting “would encourage candidates to reflect the broadest spectrum of interests and preferences possible” when campaigning in different states.
Additionally, it has been shown that compulsory voting works. Voter turnout has increased where it is mandatory and has consequences; however, it has also shown that the voter turnout has increased in places where consequences for not voting are mild.
When deciding whether or not to vote in this upcoming election, make sure to remember that you have the ability to make a change in this country.
rcassio@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @TaraBull808, X
