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• Reflections on the 1996 national elections

Many observers consider the United States' low turnout rates as a serious problem for democracy. Low turnout may jeopardize popular sovereignty, and it may have implications for political equality. Data from the National Election Studies allow us to examine the differences between voters and nonvoters.

Look at the National Election Study tables on turnout. Which groups have higher levels of turnout? Which groups experienced the most severe decline in turnout since 1960? What are the implications for political equality?

Voter registration was widely implemented in the United States in the 19th century as a means to control fraud. As a result of the 1993 National Voter Registration Act ("Motor Voter"), states which require voter registration must now allow citizens to register to vote at drivers license and motor vehicle registration offices, at welfare offices, at military recruitment offices, and by mail. The primary responsibility for voter registration is still on the individual. In Canada, the primary responsibility is for the enumeration of voters in federal elections is on Elections Canada. Up through the election of 1997, that office conducted a house-to-house enumeration before most federal elections. Turnout in the 1997 Canadian national election was 67%, about 18 points higher than in the 1996 U.S. presidential election. Elections Canada will now maintain a permanent register of electors.

Film Review

• Bob Roberts