High voter turnout is often considered an indicator of a healthy democracy because it means that a greater number of people are engaged and invested in the democratic process. When more people participate, there is a better chance that elected officials will represent a diverse range of views and interests, leading to more balanced and representative governance.
On the other hand, low voter turnout can lead to several negative effects on democracy. It can result in a less diverse and less representative group of elected officials, leading to policies that may not reflect the needs and interests of the broader population. It can also lead to a lack of accountability for elected officials, as they may not face enough scrutiny or pressure from their constituents to justify their actions.
To encourage more people to vote, one program or technology application that could be implemented is a mobile app that provides information on voter registration deadlines, polling locations, and candidates and their positions on key issues. The app could also allow users to register to vote and request absentee ballots, as well as receive reminders to vote on election day. Additionally, social media platforms could be used to encourage peer-to-peer outreach and mobilization efforts, such as sharing information on voting and organizing virtual or in-person events to promote voter turnout. Such programs and technologies can help make voting more accessible, convenient, and engaging for people, ultimately increasing voter turnout and strengthening democracy.