1. Voting in America!

2. History
What groups in history have had to fight for the right to vote? (suffrage)
In the Constitution voting practices are left up to the states. However; states can’t discriminate based on age, sex, gender, or race.
Mention literacy and poll taxes!

3. Qualifications Citizenship – must be a U.S. citizen.
Residence – must be a legal resident of the state you wish to vote in.
Age – Must be 18 or older (26th amendment).
Registration

4. Non-voters “Idiot” – In ancient Greece meant those who do not vote.
“They can’t make a difference.”
“Life is good, so why vote.”
They don’t believe in our system of government.
Too complicated
Lazy
Most people who don’t vote, don’t vote because they can’t!
Aliens, without citizenship.

5. Voter Factors Income & Occupation – white collar (R), blue collar (D).
Education – more educated (R).
Gender – women (D), men (R).
Age – younger voters (D).
Religion & Ethnicity – white, Protestants (R), other religions and minorities (D).
Geography – south (R).
Family influence

6. Assignment
In your notebook, answer the following question (1/2 page minimum).
Do you plan to register to vote when you turn 18? Why or why not? In your response, use at least 5 points from today’s notes.
Define the 15th, 19th, 24th, and 26th amendments.