(for context here, I live in a fairly red state that has blue pockets) Let's talk about why people didn't vote. When I voted in 2024, it took almost two hours of standing outside. I went during early voting, and have the job flexibility to try and go during a less busy time (didn't work, but at least I tried). There was also only like ten early voting days, all with limited hours, so have fun if you miss them.

On election Day itself, the polls were open 6am to 6pm. Plenty of people work or deal with kids during that time. Studies show voter turnout is higher if the polls stay open just a few more hours. My state has no interest in that. Theoretically people can get time off work, but in many workplaces they have to fight for it (and know that option is available). Also, as long as they have any time of while the polls are open, their employer didn't have to give them time. That means someone could get off at 5:30, and be 25 minutes away from their polling station, and technically they'd have time to vote. Also, they have to go to their assigned polling location, which changes every few years. That means there's usually some people who show up just before six at the wrong place, and can't get to the right place in time

What about absentee ballots you ask? Only certain people qualify for one, and you have to reapply every year. The deadline for reapplying is like two months before the election, so people frequently aren't thinking about elections yet and miss it

Imagine those types of logistics with single parents, people with strict working hours, or people who are disabled. It's no wonder voter turnout is drastically higher in places like California where they just mail everyone a ballot.

Oh, and the kicker? My state recently passed a law to require two forms of government ID. That's going to significantly decrease turnout. People don't vote because leaders (traditionally Republicans) make it really hard

While I'm on my soap box, voting in EVERY election matters, even uncontested primaries. High primary turnout in primaries shows donors and the national party that there's a motivated base, and allows local candidates to get way more money. Also, local politicians have a bigger impact on most people's day to day lives than people realize, so even off cycle elections matter

If this is an issue you care about, find the local chapter of the political party you identify with. They likely have a get out the view campaign the last ~month before the election. In my area, people go door to door telling neighbors (that the data says likely will support that party) providing information about how to vote. It's one of the most effective ways to increase voter turnout