With the 2024 presidential election less than a month away, voting is undeniably one of the most relevant and timely topics in the United States. However, choosing to vote can be a complex and even divisive decision that sometimes leads to some deciding not to vote at all.
We spoke with political science professor Dale Gardner to understand the current voting state and determine its value in American society.
Hesitancy to vote
In the eyes of someone who may be undecided or unencouraged to vote, the reasons behind not wanting to vote could be for many things beyond the surface-level notion of not feeling like it. This can range from apathy, if one thinks the constant reiteration of voting is becoming redundant, to irritation, such that the Electoral College diminishes votes from historically red or blue states.
When Gardner was asked about his views on whether people may feel discouraged from voting in response to the strong urge to do so by politicians, celebrities and the media, he answered, “That it is always a possibility.”
“I mean, that is basically what happens on the left and right political spectrum, pushing their base out. They might be saying, ‘Hey, you got to vote.’ but mostly, it is like they are pushing other elements of their message. They are saying the other side is so scary you have to vote, or we’re doomed.”
Gardner acknowledges that while this may deter people from voting, these “politics of fear, interests and tribalism” still “motivate people, getting them to the polls.”
However, a much more vital force for unencouraged voters lies in their despondency with the Electoral College system, as many feel like voting does not matter if their state is not a “swing state.”
Gardner comments on this idea, saying, “Statistically, it is absolutely true. There are going to be over 100 million voters in the presidential election; you have one vote, but that statistical truth does not say that you are not part of a greater whole.”
“Voting is also a way to stand in solidarity with the institutions of your society and not just let everyone else do it. People can choose the rationale not to vote like ‘it won’t matter anyway,’ but it does matter because it matters for people’s participation; withdrawal does not solve problems.”
Voting as a young voter
Considering that the 2024 presidential election is the first eligible election for many college students, it can be an exciting and yet confusing milestone for many. This milestone is often further complicated by the many influences younger people tend to have.
Gardner says, “Most people vote very similar to how their family did.” Also, mentioning how many young voters are influenced by their peers, public figures and the education system. As a result, many young voters may find themselves confused about where to place their vote, and ultimately, it has to be up to them.
Despite this challenge, there are great initiatives and resources that new and veteran voters alike can take to make better-informed decisions about voting.
Although it may sound simple, Gardner’s top advice for first-time voters is to “stay informed.”
“Get outside your bubble, look at both sides, try to deal with the stories you hear and judge which is best. There are actually more than just two candidates running for president, so even third parties should be possibilities.” Following this, Gardner notes the importance of looking at a variety of resources while ensuring they are reputable.
Registering to vote
When all is said and done, voting remains an “important civic duty and responsibility towards society” and should be something we act on. If you are on the fence about who to vote for or if you should participate in this year’s election, take the time to do your research and have meaningful conversations.
To register or check if you are registered online, visit https://ova.elections.il.gov/ or https://votechampaign.org/; or check out www.elections.il.gov for in-person options.