Compulsory Voting System?

Berkeley, Friday, April 11, 2025 11:19 AM

In Ecuador, everyone between 18 to 65 years old, I believe, must vote in any election or referendum, so they keep their civil rights, otherwise one needs to pay a fine for that purpose.

Citizens between 16 to 18, older than 65 years old, I believe, and citizens living overseas, has voting as optional, or at least for the ones who were outside of the USA, absence can be justified showing the passport, then the fine is exempt.

The question of analysis here is if compulsory voting is a good system? Definitely, hooks me to media or information near elections to make a decision. So it is good for media business, and for local facilities during campaign. On the other hand, preparing for voting can be a waste of time, if one does not have a clear decision, and needs to do more things. So voting should be volunteer?

I would always vote regardless, I believe. And also I will generally prepare for voting.

My vote might be still on decision making. With the information I have consulted, and I might apply a logic and define my vote on Saturday evening or Sunday?

Also, voting while celebrated, it is also a such important time of the year. It feels that one needs a quiet space on that day, or a gathering related to the moment. It is such an important moment for a country, where it is better to stay focused.