Is voter apathy a problem in Oklahoma?
Fewer than 6 in 10 eligible voters in Oklahoma don't vote
Oklahoma has a voter apathy problem. In the 2020 presidential election, only 58.8% of eligible voters cast a ballot. This is lower than the national average of 66.8%. Oklahoma has consistently ranked near the bottom of voter turnout in recent elections.
What are the causes of voter apathy in Oklahoma?
There are a number of factors that contribute to voter apathy in Oklahoma. One factor is the state's strict voter ID law. According to a 2018 study by the Brennan Center for Justice, Oklahoma's voter ID law is one of the most restrictive in the country. The study found that the law could disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of voters, particularly minority voters and low-income voters.
Another factor that contributes to voter apathy in Oklahoma is the state's low levels of civic engagement. According to a 2017 study by the Pew Research Center, Oklahoma is one of the least civically engaged states in the country. The study found that only 29% of Oklahomans reported volunteering for a political or social cause in the past year, and only 32% reported attending a public meeting to discuss local or state government issues.
What can be done to address voter apathy in Oklahoma?
There are a number of things that can be done to address voter apathy in Oklahoma. One step is to make it easier for people to vote. This could be done by expanding access to early voting, same-day registration, and no-excuse absentee voting. Another step is to increase civic engagement. This could be done by providing more opportunities for people to get involved in the political process, such as volunteering for campaigns or attending public meetings.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a more informed and engaged electorate in Oklahoma. This will require a concerted effort from government, civic organizations, and the media. By working together, we can create a more vibrant and participatory democracy in Oklahoma.
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