Typically in the United States, National Elections draw large numbers of voters compared to Local Elections.
Because the Constitution did not specifically say who could vote, this question was largely left to the states into the 1800s. In most cases, landowning white men were eligible to vote, while white women, black people, and other disadvantaged groups of the time were excluded from voting (known as disenfranchisement).
While no longer explicitly excluded, voter suppression is a problem in many parts of the country. Some politicians try to win reelection by making it harder for certain populations and demographics to vote. These politicians may use strategies such as reducing polling locations in predominantly African American or Lantinx neighborhoods, or only having polling stations open during business hours, when many disenfranchised populations are working and unable to take time off.
If you ever think that just one vote in a sea of millions cannot make much of a difference, consider some of the closest elections in U.S. history. Your vote may not directly elect the president, but if your vote joins enough others in your voting district or county, your vote undoubtedly matters.
Comments