Why the "Senior Vote" is so powerful

Jun 5, 2012, 9:54 a.m.

The power of the senior vote is always strong, but is becoming even more awesome. Politicians around the world, even in the face of mounting national budget pressures in the U.S. and Europe, consistently react to senior voters. While there are many reasons to court the senior voter, one key attraction embodies the overwhelming power of older citizens.

They vote in huge numbers! Seniors are, by far, the most dependable, prolific and dedicated voters of all demographic groups. The presidential election of 2000 is a perfect example. 43.7 percent of the 25 to 34 age group went to the polls. Only 55 percent of the 35- to 44-year olds cast a ballot. However, 66.8 percent of the 55 to 64 group voted. In the 65- to 74-year old group, a whopping 69.9 percent went to the polls to select a new U.S. President.

Senior voting statistics remain strong even in so-called "off year" elections, dominated by local office candidates. In a one person, one vote democracy, these numbers are highly powerful. Off-year election statistics show that 60 to 61 percent of seniors still get out to the polls.

Comparing the percentage of registered voters by age group displays even more graphic proof that seniors carry a big stick at election time. Close to 90 percent of all registered voters over 45 consistently get out to the polls annually.

Baby boomers have remained dedicated to voting since they were much younger, while currently young people display an ambivalence to voting as a primary constitutional privilege. Historic senior voting statistics prove this fact. In the Presidential elections of 1964 and 1968, those who voted under age 65 outnumbered those over 65. However, since the 1972 election, over-65 voters have surpassed all those under 65. And, since 1988, the gap has widened considerably.

The power of the senior vote has always been strong. In the past three decades, senior voting statistics indicate an even higher power rating. Their focus and pertinent issues may be different from those concerns harbored while in their 30s and 40s, but their commitment to make their senior vote count has never wavered.

Local, state and national politicians understand this power and react to it. The senior unofficial lobby and more formal groups continue to use this power to influence political decisions that benefit the country and society. The power of the senior vote will not diminish in the near future. As people live longer with a good quality of life, senior voting statistics will remain strong for years to come.

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