Fact Check: Early Voting Increases Voter Participation in Elections
What We Know
Early voting has been shown to significantly boost voter participation in elections. According to a study by Costas Panagopoulos, a distinguished professor of political science at Northeastern University, early voting helps increase voter turnout. He notes that most voters have made their voting decisions weeks or even months in advance, which facilitates their participation when early voting options are available (Northeastern University).
Data from the 2020 election indicates that approximately 70% of the more than 150 million votes cast were submitted before Election Day, largely due to the expansion of mail-in voting options during the COVID-19 pandemic (Northeastern University). Furthermore, a report by the Election Innovation Project highlights that in the upcoming 2024 election, 97% of voting-age citizens will have access to at least one early voting option, suggesting that this trend is likely to continue (Election Innovation).
Analysis
The claim that early voting increases voter participation is supported by multiple credible sources. Panagopoulos asserts that the convenience of early voting reforms, such as mail-in ballots, has historically led to higher turnout rates, especially in close races (Northeastern University). This assertion is corroborated by research indicating that states with more accessible early voting laws tend to see higher levels of voter engagement (Kaplan & Yuan, 2020).
However, not all studies agree on the extent of this effect. Some research suggests that while early voting laws are intended to increase turnout, their actual impact may be limited (Hamel, 2024). This discrepancy could stem from various factors, including the political landscape, voter demographics, and the specific implementation of early voting laws in different states.
Despite these differing views, the overall consensus among reputable sources is that early voting does indeed facilitate higher participation rates. The reliability of the sources cited, including academic studies and expert opinions, lends credibility to the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that early voting increases voter participation in elections is supported by substantial evidence from multiple credible sources. While there are some studies that suggest a limited impact, the prevailing view among experts is that early voting significantly enhances voter turnout, particularly in competitive elections. The trend of expanding early voting options further supports the assertion that such measures are effective in increasing electoral participation.
