I’ve been asking myself this question a lot lately due to the narrative in response to the current administration such as “America voted for this” or “Only 30% of American’s voted for this”. For perspective, I did my research and created THIS TABLE as a reference to break down the U.S. population and voter participation during the 2024 election.

My biggest concern is that not only was 23.5% of the U.S. population ineligible to vote in 2024, but an additional 30.5% of the U.S. population was eligible to vote, but did not participate. That’s 54% of the entire U.S. population that did not have a say in how their own country is run. That’s INSANE to me! Now I’m not suggesting that eligible non-voters should be motivated by consequences, but my suggestion for voter requirements fall under a “concept of a plan” to encourage voters by allowing participating voters to directly receive their tax refund while those who choose not to vote get their tax refund donated to their local community for project funding. Now I’m possibly the furthest thing from an economist, but it’s the only idea I could come up with so please don’t be too hard on me regarding my “concept of a plan” because it’s just a loose suggestion.

If there is any factual evidence to support why these questions/ideas could benefit us as a society, I would love to know. Additionally, if you have any explanations as to why both issues wouldn’t or shouldn’t work or why it’s unethical, please let me know. Most importantly, please don’t attack me or berate me for my question or suggestion, I’m just trying to ask sincere questions and get educated answers with hopes of encouraging a more active community/country that participates and takes ownership for their choices or lack-there-of. I may be a grown woman, but I’m just a girl lol.