Answer:
The decline of party machines during the early twentieth century contributed to a drop in voter turnout in several ways.
Party machines were political organizations that exerted significant control over the political process in many cities and states during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were known for their ability to mobilize voters and get out the vote, particularly in urban areas where they had a strong presence. The party machines were able to do this through a combination of patronage, which involved offering jobs and services in exchange for political support, and a well-organized system of precinct captains and ward leaders who were responsible for mobilizing voters on election day.
However, in the early twentieth century, a number of factors contributed to the decline of party machines, including progressive reforms that aimed to reduce corruption and increase transparency in the political process, as well as demographic changes such as the growth of suburban areas and the decline of urban political machines. As party machines declined, so too did their ability to mobilize voters and get out the vote.
Without the organizational support provided by party machines, voter turnout began to decline, particularly in urban areas where the machines had previously been most active. In addition, the decline of party machines was accompanied by a rise in negative campaigning and a decrease in voter enthusiasm, which further contributed to the drop in turnout.
Overall, the decline of party machines during the early twentieth century contributed to a drop in voter turnout by reducing the ability of political organizations to mobilize voters and get out the vote, and by creating a more negative and less enthusiastic political climate.