May 12, 2025 - News
Oregon among states with highest voter turnout
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Oregon had the third-highest rate of voter turnout in the last election, due at least in part to the state's vote-by-mail system.
Why it matters: Even in high-stakes presidential elections like we had last year, many Americans simply don't participate — whether out of disinterest or inability.
Zoom in: More than 75% of eligible Oregonians voted in the 2024 election.
- Leading the pack was Washington, D.C., with nearly 80% and Minnesota, where almost 76% cast a ballot.
- Arkansas (52.8%), Texas (57.9%) and Louisiana (58%) had the lowest.
- Nationwide, about 65% of voting-age Americans cast a ballot.
Between the lines: Lack of participation doesn't necessarily imply voter apathy. Some want to vote but are unable due to work, health issues, etc.
- Some of the top-performing states and areas have vote-by-mail systems, which tend to boost participation.
- Here in Oregon, we've been using vote-by-mail for statewide elections since the mid-'90s and in presidential elections since 2000.
- Nearly 40% of voters cast their ballots in person on Election Day this past November, per the Census Bureau. Nearly 31% voted in person but early, while 29% voted by mail.
What's next: Multnomah County residents won't have to wait long to flex their voting muscles.
- We've got a special election coming up in just about two weeks.