Explain the significance of France's election

[DMC]

@John Mace

I doubt that this is significant. Oregon has vote-by-mail only, and it still comes in lower than some states that use the traditional method. In 2004 the highest turnout was in MN, at 77%, compared to 71% in OR. You can also look at a state like Ca where anyone can vote by mail if he or she likes (I have been doing so for over a decade): 2004 voter turnout was about 60%, right at the national average (actually about .5% lower).

But Minnesota allows you to register at the polls on election day, whereas it’s a bit more problematic for some people in other states.

[marshmallow]

When the MSM is discussing French issues it’s very common to show footage of France’s president. With the election of Royal we could’ve had a little bit more sexiness injected into our news coverage instead of some old man. An opportunity missed, I suppose…

[John_Mace]

@DMC

But Minnesota allows you to register at the polls on election day, whereas it’s a bit more problematic for some people in other states.

Well, North Dakota doesn’t even require voter registration at all (just show a valid ID), and they had 65% turnout in 2004. Better than the national average, but not by much.

I’m not saying you can’t do things to increase voter turnout, just that I doubt “long lines” on election day is the main problem.