How Many People Voted In 2020? Unpacking The Historic Turnout

Karson Botsford Sr. 12 Jun 2025

The 2020 United States Presidential Election was a landmark event in American history, not just for its political outcomes but also for the unprecedented level of civic engagement it witnessed. Millions of Americans, driven by a myriad of factors, cast their ballots, leading to a turnout that shattered previous records. If you've ever wondered how many people voted in 2020, you're looking at a truly remarkable chapter in the nation's democratic journey. This article delves deep into the official figures, demographic shifts, and significant changes in voting methods that defined this historic election.

Understanding the sheer scale of participation in 2020 offers crucial insights into the health of American democracy and the evolving landscape of voter behavior. From the surge in non-traditional voting methods to the specific demographic groups that turned out in force, the data paints a vivid picture of a nation highly engaged in its political process. Join us as we explore the definitive numbers and the stories they tell about one of the most pivotal elections in recent memory.

The Unprecedented Turnout: How Many People Voted in 2020?
Breaking Down the Numbers: Official Tallies and Census Data
A Shift in Voting Methods: The Rise of Non-Traditional Ballots
- The Surge in Mail-In Voting
- Impact on Election Day Procedures
Who Voted? Demographics of the 2020 Electorate
- Age Groups and Their Participation
- Other Overrepresented Groups
Understanding Voter Registration and Uncast Ballots
Historical Context: 2020 Turnout Compared to Previous Elections
Addressing Misinformation: The 2020 Election's Integrity
The Lasting Impact of the 2020 Election

The Unprecedented Turnout: How Many People Voted in 2020?

The question of how many people voted in 2020 is answered with a resounding figure that marks a new high in American electoral history. The 2020 presidential election saw an extraordinary surge in voter participation, setting new benchmarks for engagement. This record-breaking turnout wasn't just a slight increase; it represented a significant mobilization of the American electorate, reflecting the intense political climate and the critical issues at stake.

For the first time ever, more than 140 million people cast their ballots in a U.S. presidential election. This monumental achievement underscores the gravity with which citizens approached their civic duty. The sheer volume of votes cast highlights a period of profound national interest and engagement in the democratic process, distinguishing 2020 from any election that came before it. This section will lay the groundwork for understanding the specifics of this historic turnout, leading into a more detailed breakdown of the official numbers and the factors contributing to them.

Breaking Down the Numbers: Official Tallies and Census Data

To accurately answer how many people voted in 2020, we turn to the authoritative sources that meticulously track and verify election data. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) is the primary federal agency responsible for overseeing and enforcing campaign finance law in the United States, and it also compiles official election results. According to the FEC, a staggering 158,429,631 people voted in the 2020 presidential election. This figure represents the official count of ballots submitted and validated across all states and territories.

This number is not merely a statistic; it signifies the largest total voter turnout in U.S. history. Prior to 2020, no presidential election had ever surpassed the 140 million vote mark, making this achievement particularly noteworthy. The U.S. Census Bureau, another vital source for demographic and electoral data, provides further context. Based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the 2020 presidential election saw the highest voter turnout of the 21st century, with approximately 66.8% of citizens aged 18 years and older casting a ballot. This percentage is crucial because it accounts for the eligible voting-age population (VAP) and the citizen voting-age population (CVAP), offering a more precise measure of participation relative to those who could vote.

It's important to note that election data can be subject to ongoing refinement. For instance, the data indicates that on 1/2/2025, a typo in the 2020 turnout figure was corrected, and many data points were updated with original census data on 11/17/2024. This continuous process of verification and update ensures the highest level of accuracy in official records. The slight difference between "More than 159 million Americans voted in 2020" and the FEC's precise 158,429,631 figure highlights the nuances of preliminary versus finalized official tallies, but both unequivocally point to a record-setting turnout.

A Shift in Voting Methods: The Rise of Non-Traditional Ballots

One of the most defining characteristics of the 2020 election, significantly impacting how many people voted in 2020, was the dramatic shift in how Americans cast their ballots. The COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role in accelerating trends towards alternative voting methods, fundamentally altering traditional election day procedures. This adaptation was critical in ensuring that a record number of citizens could participate safely amidst public health concerns.

Historically, in-person voting on Election Day was the dominant method. Prior to 2020, approximately 60% of voters cast their ballots in person on election day. However, the landscape transformed dramatically in 2020. With widespread concerns about crowded polling places, many states expanded access to early voting, absentee voting, and mail-in voting. These changes led to a monumental shift: almost 70% of voters used nontraditional methods to cast their ballots in 2020. This stark contrast highlights a significant evolution in electoral administration and voter behavior, demonstrating a remarkable flexibility in the system to accommodate unprecedented circumstances.

The Surge in Mail-In Voting

Central to the shift in voting methods was the unprecedented surge in mail-in voting. As states sought ways to facilitate safe voting during the pandemic, many relaxed or expanded their mail-in ballot policies, allowing a far greater proportion of the electorate to vote from home. This was a critical factor in allowing so many people to vote in 2020. The analysis predicted that 80 million ballots could be cast by mail in 2020—more than double the number in 2016.

This prediction largely materialized, with millions opting for the convenience and safety of mailing in their ballots. The increased reliance on mail-in voting necessitated significant adjustments in election administration, from ballot distribution and tracking to the processing and counting of votes. While it introduced new logistical challenges, it undeniably played a crucial role in enabling the record turnout by making voting more accessible to a broader segment of the population, including those who might have otherwise hesitated to vote in person.

Impact on Election Day Procedures

The widespread adoption of non-traditional voting methods had a profound impact on Election Day itself. With a large percentage of votes already cast through early in-person or mail-in ballots, the atmosphere at many polling places on November 3rd, 2020, was different from previous elections. While some locations still saw lines, the overall pressure on Election Day infrastructure was somewhat alleviated in areas where alternative methods were heavily utilized.

This shift also meant that election results took longer to tabulate in many areas, as mail-in ballots often require more time for processing and verification than in-person votes. This extended counting period, while necessary for accuracy, contributed to a period of heightened anticipation and, unfortunately, became a focal point for misinformation. However, the fundamental success lay in the ability of the electoral system to adapt and ensure that the vast majority of citizens who wished to vote were able to do so, regardless of the method chosen.

Who Voted? Demographics of the 2020 Electorate

Understanding how many people voted in 2020 also requires an examination of *who* voted. Demographic analysis provides valuable insights into which segments of the population were most engaged and how their participation compared to their overall share of the eligible voting population (CVAP - Citizen Voting-Age Population). The 2020 election saw particular groups overrepresented among voters, indicating heightened engagement from these demographics.

The composition of the electorate in 2020 reflects evolving political priorities and mobilization efforts. Identifying these demographic trends helps political scientists, policymakers, and civic organizations better understand voter behavior and tailor future engagement strategies. The data reveals specific age groups and other segments of the population that demonstrated a particularly strong propensity to cast their ballots.

Age Groups and Their Participation

Among the groups that were overrepresented among voters in the 2020 election compared to their respective shares of the CVAP, certain age demographics stood out:

Those ages 45 to 64: This cohort consistently shows strong turnout, and 2020 was no exception. Their sustained engagement often reflects established voting habits and a deep interest in policy outcomes that directly affect their lives and families.
Those age 65 and older: This demographic demonstrated particularly robust participation. In the 65 and older group, 74% voted in 2020, compared to 71% in 2016. This increase of 3 percentage points highlights a significant and active participation from older Americans, who are often highly reliable voters. Their consistent and increased turnout underscores their continued influence in electoral outcomes.

The high turnout among older voters is a consistent feature of U.S. elections, often attributed to higher levels of civic awareness, fixed incomes, and healthcare concerns, which make them particularly sensitive to political decisions. The 2020 figures reinforce this trend, showing that this demographic remained a powerful force in determining how many people voted in 2020 and, ultimately, the election's outcome.

Other Overrepresented Groups

While the provided data specifically highlights age groups, broader analyses of the 2020 electorate often point to other groups that may have been overrepresented, or whose participation rates were notably high. These can include:

Higher-income individuals: Generally, those with higher incomes tend to vote at higher rates.
Individuals with higher educational attainment: Education levels often correlate with increased civic engagement and voting.
Certain racial and ethnic groups: While not specified in the provided data, detailed analyses by the Census Bureau and other research organizations often break down turnout by race and ethnicity, showing varying levels of participation and mobilization efforts.

These demographic insights are crucial for understanding the composition of the active electorate and for tailoring future outreach and engagement strategies. The robust participation from older Americans, in particular, speaks to their enduring role in shaping the nation's political direction.

Understanding Voter Registration and Uncast Ballots

While the focus is often on how many people voted in 2020, it's equally important to consider the broader context of voter registration and the number of eligible voters who did not cast a ballot. These figures provide a more complete picture of civic engagement and highlight areas where potential for increased participation still exists.

The 2020 election saw a significant number of Americans registered to vote. Approximately 161 million people were registered to vote in the 2020 presidential election. This high registration rate is a testament to the efforts of political campaigns, civic organizations, and state election officials to encourage participation. Out of this substantial pool of registered voters, roughly 96.3% of ballots were submitted, totaling 158,427,986 votes. This high submission rate among registered voters indicates a strong commitment from those who took the step to register.

However, despite the record turnout and high registration, a notable segment of the eligible voting population did not participate. Roughly 81 million eligible voters did not cast a ballot. This figure includes individuals who were eligible to vote but did not register, as well as those who registered but ultimately chose not to vote. Understanding why such a large number of eligible citizens do not vote is a complex question, involving factors such as voter apathy, lack of compelling candidates, perceived ineffectiveness of their vote, logistical barriers, or simply being too busy.

The existence of 81 million uncast ballots represents a significant untapped potential in the American electorate. Efforts to increase voter registration and address the reasons for non-participation remain crucial for further strengthening democratic engagement. While 2020 marked a historic high, these numbers remind us that there's always room for greater inclusion and participation in the democratic process.

Historical Context: 2020 Turnout Compared to Previous Elections

To truly appreciate how many people voted in 2020, it's essential to place it within a historical context. The 2020 election didn't just break records; it redefined what was considered possible in terms of voter turnout in the modern era. Comparing it to previous elections highlights the magnitude of this achievement and underscores the unique circumstances that contributed to it.

As previously mentioned, the 2020 election marked the first time in U.S. history that more than 140 million people voted, with the official count exceeding 158 million. This stands in stark contrast to previous cycles. For example, the 2016 presidential election saw approximately 138 million votes cast, meaning 2020 represented an increase of over 20 million votes. Looking further back, the 2008 election, which also saw high engagement, recorded around 131 million votes. The consistent upward trend in total votes from 2008 to 2016 and then the massive leap in 2020 illustrate a growing, though sometimes volatile, engagement in presidential elections.

In terms of turnout percentage among the voting-eligible population (VEP) or citizen voting-age population (CVAP), 2020's 66.8% of citizens aged 18 and older was the highest of the 21st century. This figure is particularly significant when considering that U.S. turnout rates, while varying, have often lagged behind those of other developed democracies. While the 1980 VEP estimate (and associated turnout ratio) is based on an app calculation using a specific method outlined at the U.S. Census Bureau, the 2020 figures are directly derived from official Census data, providing a robust comparison point.

The substantial increase in turnout in 2020 can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including the highly polarized political environment, the perceived high stakes of the election, and the unprecedented changes in voting access due to the pandemic. This historical context solidifies 2020's place as a pivotal moment for American democracy, demonstrating a renewed vigor in civic participation that will likely influence future electoral strategies and discussions about voter access.

Addressing Misinformation: The 2020 Election's Integrity

In the aftermath of the 2020 election, and even years later, discussions about how many people voted in 2020 became intertwined with widespread claims of election fraud. Less than 24 hours after Donald Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States, social media users began pushing two conflicting narratives to suggest election fraud: one that revived false claims by Trump that the 2020 vote was stolen from him and the other questioning how Vice President Kamala Harris could have received so many fewer votes in 2024 than President Joe Biden in 2020. It is crucial to address these narratives with factual data and emphasize the integrity of the 2020 election results.

The official figures from the Federal Election Commission, stating 158,429,631 votes, and the U.S. Census Bureau's confirmation of 66.8% turnout among eligible citizens, are the result of rigorous processes involving state and local election officials, bipartisan oversight, and post-election audits. Numerous recounts, audits, and court challenges consistently affirmed the accuracy and integrity of the 2020 results. The claims of widespread fraud have been thoroughly investigated and debunked by election experts, government agencies, and courts across the country.

The sheer volume of votes cast in 2020, facilitated by expanded access to mail-in and early voting, was a legitimate outcome of an election held during a global pandemic. The increase in turnout was a direct result of these adaptations and heightened voter engagement, not fraudulent activity. Understanding the true numbers and the methods by which they were collected and verified is essential to counter misinformation and uphold public trust in democratic institutions. The official 2020 presidential general election results stand as a testament to the robust and secure nature of the American electoral system, despite challenges and false accusations.

The Lasting Impact of the 2020 Election

The 2020 presidential election will be remembered not just for its political outcome but also for the profound changes it brought to the American electoral landscape and the unprecedented level of voter participation. The answer to how many people voted in 2020—over 158 million—serves as a powerful indicator of a deeply engaged electorate and a system that, despite challenges, successfully adapted to ensure broad access to the ballot.

The lasting impacts of the 2020 election are multifaceted:

Normalization of Non-Traditional Voting: The widespread use of mail-in and early voting methods in 2020 has fundamentally altered voter expectations and state election laws. While some states have since rolled back certain pandemic-era expansions, the experience has demonstrated the viability and convenience of these methods for many voters.
Increased Voter Engagement: The record turnout suggests a heightened sense of civic duty and political awareness among the American populace. This level of engagement could set a new baseline for future elections, prompting candidates and parties to invest more in voter mobilization.
Focus on Election Integrity: The post-election period brought unprecedented scrutiny to election processes. While fueled by false claims, this scrutiny has, in some ways, led to increased transparency efforts and a renewed focus on the security and verification of votes, ensuring that the public can trust the numbers, including how many people voted in 2020.
Demographic Shifts: The strong turnout from older demographics, as well as potential shifts in other groups, will continue to inform political strategy and policy debates. Understanding who votes and why is crucial for shaping future campaigns and legislative agendas.

Ultimately, the 2020 election underscored the resilience of American democracy and the enduring power of the individual vote. It provided invaluable lessons on adapting electoral processes during crises and highlighted the critical importance of accurate, verified data in the face of misinformation. The legacy of 2020 will continue to shape discussions about voter access, election security, and civic participation for years to come.

The question of "how many people voted in 2020" is more than just a number; it's a narrative of historic engagement, adaptation, and resilience. We hope this comprehensive look has provided you with a clearer understanding of this pivotal moment in American history. What are your thoughts on the 2020 turnout? Share your perspectives in the comments below!

If you found this article insightful, consider sharing it with others who might be interested in understanding the nuances of U.S. election data. You might also be interested in exploring other articles on our site related to voter rights, election history, or civic engagement.

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