States United Democracy Center Launches Interactive Resource Tracking Voter Turnout in American Elections

Published July 25, 2024

Washington, D.C. — Today, the States United Democracy Center launched a new resource tracking voter turnout in every state since 2000, for both primary and general elections. The interactive tool allows users to explore patterns in voter turnout state-by-state, over time, and by position.

“In any election year, voter turnout is impacted by the types of races and candidates on the ballot, and the issues at play,” said Kelly Rader, Research Director at the States United Democracy Center. “Though the 2024 presidential race was entirely reshaped in the weeks leading up to both parties’ nominating conventions, looking to historical turnout data can help us better understand how to think about turnout in November.”

A healthy democracy depends on widespread participation in elections, and this tool allows users to explore trends in voter participation across the country and over time. Because voter turnout can be measured in more than one way, the resource allows users to toggle between different types of data.

“No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, we can all agree that it’s a good thing when more people get involved in our democracy,” said Joanna Lydgate, CEO of the States United Democracy Center. “When more people vote, our leaders are more likely to reflect the people they serve.”

Key Takeaways:

• Turnout has picked up since 2000 in both presidential and midterm elections, reflecting a growing engagement in American democracy.
• State-specific voting laws and demographic factors can influence participation in all elections.
• In presidential election years since 2000, national primary voter turnout has varied between 18 and 29 percent, and general election turnout has fluctuated between 56 and 68 percent.
• Participation tends to fall off as voters move down the ballot, also known as roll-off; voting for every race is essential as positions further down the ballot hold considerable influence over elections and government, especially in local government.
• Voter turnout in the U.S. has historically been lower than in other advanced democracies.

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About the States United Democracy Center

The States United Democracy Center is a nonpartisan organization advancing free, fair, and secure elections. We connect state officials, law enforcement leaders, and pro-democracy partners across America with the tools and expertise they need to safeguard our democracy. For more information, visit statesuniteddemocracy.org.