Why was voter turnout so low in 1996?

[darklordoftech]

I've read that voter turnout in 1996 was the lowest since 1924, and I don't think any election since has had such a low voter turnout. Why did so many people stay home in 1996?

[SingingAnalyst]

I've read that voter turnout in 1996 was the lowest since 1924, and I don't think any election since has had such a low voter turnout. Why did so many people stay home in 1996?

Probably because many people still didn't trust President Bill Clinton and didn't feel Bob Dole or Ross Perot ran much of a campaign. Also, most people inclined to vote Nader were probably too young to vote.

[dw93]

I've read that voter turnout in 1996 was the lowest since 1924, and I don't think any election since has had such a low voter turnout. Why did so many people stay home in 1996?

I think because it was a forgone conclusion by early '96 that Clinton was gonna walk away with the election. That and peace and prosperity gave no one a reason to turn out.

[sg0508]

Peace and prosperity, an uninspiring GOP candidate and lack of drama.