What is 'ballot fatigue'?

Ballot fatigue refers to the phenomenon where voters feel overwhelmed or exhausted due to the presence of an excessive number of offices, candidates, or ballot measures to consider during an election. This situation often leads to voters making hasty decisions or skipping items on the ballot altogether, ultimately affecting the outcomes of various races and measures.

When a ballot is lengthy and includes numerous propositions or offices, it can be challenging for voters to thoroughly research and understand each option. As a result, they may become fatigued, leading to disengagement and a lower likelihood of participating fully in the voting process. Understanding this concept is crucial for assessing voter behavior and the overall effectiveness of elections, as ballot fatigue can impact voter turnout and the quality of democratic participation.