What does this measure?

The percentage of the voting-age population (18 and over) that actually voted in an election.

Why is this important?

Voting is a basic responsibility of all citizens and an indication of the citizenry's interest in and commitment to participating in our political process.

How is Orange County performing?

Voter turnout in the 2014 midterm election was 33% in Orange County, the same as Dutchess and the state (excluding NYC), and lower than in Ulster County (37%). This is down from 37% in the 2010 midterm and 35% in the 2006 midterm elections.

Notes about the data

Voter turnout was calculated using votes cast in the top race on the ballot. Turnout was not reported in non-presidential, non-gubernatorial years since data were not readily available. Comparable national data were only available in presidential years.