The High Cost of Apathy: Reflections on the 2024 Election

 

By Michael Smith

The results of this election are in, and once again, the nation stands at a crossroads. As we process Donald Trump’s re-election, there’s a potent mix of frustration, disbelief, and, for many, resignation. While it’s easy to point fingers, my frustration isn’t just with the predictable turnout of the Republican base. They showed up, as they always do, with unwavering determination. No, my true disappointment lies with those who stayed home—the voters who, despite knowing what was at stake, chose inaction.

The Persistent Threat of Apathy

The 2024 election revealed a familiar and disheartening story: apathy taking center stage and silencing the voices that should have been heard. Trump did not secure this victory with a dramatic surge in new support. Instead, too many of the people who once voted to remove him in 2020 chose to sit out this time, ignoring the clear stakes. This level of indifference is staggering, especially after four years marked by chaos, divisive rhetoric, and policies that disproportionately impacted marginalized communities.

Georgia's Rollercoaster: Voter Turnout in 2020 vs. 2024

Reflecting on my first voting experience in the 2000 presidential election in Florida brings a sense of déjà vu. That year, Florida became a national symbol of political contention, with recounts and legal battles showing how fragile democracy could be. The outcome was determined by mere hundreds of votes, emphasizing that every ballot counts. Fast forward to 2020, Georgia emerged as a beacon of change and resilience, turning out in record numbers. More than 4.9 million Georgians cast their votes, achieving a 68% voter participation rate. I was proud to be part of those 11,780 decisive votes that Trump attempted to discredit.

However, the tide turned in 2024. Georgia’s voter turnout dropped significantly to 4.2 million, marking a decrease of 700,000 voters compared to 2020 and pulling participation down to 61%. This decline was a critical factor in the outcome, opening the door for regression and letting disinformation and disengagement win the day.

Why This Matters: Accountability and Moving Forward

There is a pervasive disease of disinformation, ignorance, and complacency that has seeped into our democratic process. Economic analyses warned that Trump’s policies would worsen inequality and strip essential services, yet millions chose silence over action. This isn’t just disappointing—it’s dangerous. For those who didn’t vote this year, understand this: whatever policies emerge, whatever freedoms are curtailed, the outcome is partially on your shoulders.

The path forward requires holding ourselves accountable and building a culture where participation is the norm. If you’re disillusioned by these results and did vote, don’t lose hope. The fight for a better future doesn’t end with one election cycle. It continues at community meetings, voter registration drives, and in the push for better civic education. Democracy survives when enough people care to engage.

A Call to Action

We must combat apathy, disinformation, and ignorance that threaten democracy. Civic education and ongoing commitment to participation are more important than ever. Let this be a reminder: democracy isn’t defined by what happens on Election Day—it’s what happens every day. For better outcomes, we must show up, fight for them, and never let complacency win.