nonvoter

Nonvoter refers to a person who is eligible to vote in a given election but does not cast a ballot. In political science, the term describes a form of political participation known as nonparticipation, distinct from being ineligible or unable to vote.

Nonvoters include deliberate abstainers who would not vote even if conditions improved; those unable to vote due to illness, travel, or access barriers; and individuals who are legally disenfranchised in a given jurisdiction, such as some felon disenfranchisement laws.

Reasons for not voting vary: political disaffection, satisfaction with the status quo, beliefs that elections do not affect personal life, and practical obstacles such as registration requirements, voting access, long lines, work obligations, and weather.

Research notes that nonvoting rates differ by country and election. Demographic patterns are not universally consistent, but in many contexts nonvoting correlates with younger age, lower education, or limited trust in institutions. The meaning of nonvoting for democracy is debated, with some arguing it undermines legitimacy and others suggesting it reflects a diverse set of political preferences and constraints.

Policy responses in many democracies aim to reduce barriers and increase participation, including easier registration, expanded early or mail voting, more polling places, and civic education. Some scholars emphasize the value of turnout, while others stress that citizen choice should be meaningful and informed.