What is one common consequence of lower voter turnout?

One common consequence of lower voter turnout is potentially less representative government. When fewer individuals participate in elections, the elected officials may not accurately reflect the preferences and needs of the broader population. This is especially significant in a democracy, where the principle of representation relies on the idea that those in office should mirror the demographic and ideological composition of the electorate.

Lower turnout may skew results towards the preferences of more motivated groups or individuals, often leading to outcomes that do not capture the views of less engaged or disenfranchised populations. Factors such as socioeconomic status, age, and education often influence who votes, meaning that a lack of participation can exacerbate existing inequalities and create a government that does not represent the diverse viewpoints of the entire community. This disconnect can hinder effective governance and undermine the legitimacy of the political system.