This document discusses factors that influence voter turnout and voting decisions. It notes that older, wealthier, more educated, and female individuals are more likely to vote. Younger, poorer, less educated individuals and some racial/ethnic groups have lower turnout. Voting decisions are influenced by political socialization growing up, party identification, attitudes on issues, and candidates' past and future performance. Economic models consider the costs and benefits of voting, including the probability one's vote will impact the outcome and the costs of voting versus civic duty benefits. Pocketbook voting looks at personal finances while sociotropic voting considers national indicators. Party identification, interpersonal networks, media, and perceptions of candidates also shape voting decisions. Legal