ELECTION TURNOUT RATES OF YOUNG AND OLD AMERICANS, 1972-2022
In this slideshow, we look at the turnout gap between young and old Americans in all presidential and midterm elections from 1972 to 2022.
Figure 1.3: ELECTION TURNOUT RATES OF YOUNG AND OLD AMERICANS, 1972–2022
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The Turnout Gap by Age in Presidential Elections
The turnout gap between young and old people has generally widened in presidential elections since 1972, with young people usually voting less and older people voting more often.
The Turnout Gap by Age in Midterm Congressional Elections
In midterm congressional elections turnout has been lower among both young people and senior citizens, as interest in these elections is not as great as found in presidential elections.
The Sawtooth Pattern of Turnout
Putting the presidential and congressional turnout numbers together reveals a sawtooth pattern, as turnout goes up in presidential years and then back down in congressional years. These ups and downs are much more evident among young people because they are generally less interested in politics.