Final answer:
Voter turnout refers to the percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election. In the United States, voter turnout has been historically low compared to other industrialized nations. Efforts are made to increase voter turnout in recognition of its importance in a democratic society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Voter turnout refers to the percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election. In the United States, voter turnout has been historically low compared to other industrialized nations. For example, in the recent 2020 election, voter turnout reached 66 percent, the highest recorded since the 1980s.
Low voter turnout can be influenced by various factors such as disenchantment, indifference, and contentment with likely winners or parties. Efforts are made by organizations and individuals to increase voter turnout, recognizing its importance in a democratic society.
It is essential to distinguish between eligible voters and registered voters. Eligible voters are citizens who meet the minimum age requirement, while registered voters have their names on a voter registration list and meet state requirements. The number of registered voters is lower than the number of eligible voters, and the number of registered voters who actually vote is even lower. The voter turnout rate in the United States has ranged from a low of 46 percent to a high of 66 percent in the last 20 years.