This article examines voter registration rates among transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, despite legal frameworks prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity.

Context:

The study addresses the gap in political science literature regarding how gender identity affects electoral processes even where such distinctions are legally irrelevant. It investigates whether practical barriers or social perceptions continue to hinder participation from this community.

Key Questions Investigated:

The research explores several critical questions: How does voter registration behavior differ among transgender and gender non-conforming people compared to cisgender individuals? What factors explain these differences, if any exist?

Data & Methods:

Drawing on large-scale survey data from the U.S. Transgender Survey (2015) and incorporating mixed-methods analysis including qualitative interviews.

Findings:

The results indicate that even after controlling for standard demographic factors, individuals identifying as transgender or gender non-conforming face significantly lower voter registration rates than cisgender peers.

Why It Matters:

These findings highlight a disconnect between formal legal equality and practical electoral participation. They suggest persistent barriers in political processes requiring targeted policy reforms.