What is one possible explanation for low voter turnout in the United States?

Low voter turnout in the United States can be attributed to the fact that most states do not automatically register voters. This means that individuals often need to take additional steps to register, which can create barriers to participation, particularly for those who may be less motivated or who face challenges like lack of time or resources. Without automatic registration, many potential voters may remain unaware that they need to take action to participate in elections, or they might simply forget the registration deadlines. Creating an environment where voter registration is seamless is crucial for increasing electoral participation, as it removes unnecessary hurdles that could otherwise discourage citizens from casting their votes.

In contrast, automatic voter registration could streamline the process and help boost turnout by ensuring that eligible citizens are registered as soon as they interact with certain government agencies, therefore making the act of voting more accessible and less burdensome.