[QUOTE=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).
[/QUOTE]
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.
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…
[QUOTE=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.
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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.