A shorter presidential campaign and more media coverage of political news and events would increase voter interest and participation, Patterson
said.
Freeman predicted new technology, like a recently-launched website that allows users to take part in a mock presidential election, will affect turnout in the elections of the future.
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However, there is no "quick fix" for increasing voter interest, Gans said.
"There isn't an issue that's going to bump it up."
The forum was co-sponsored by the Institute of Politics and by the Harvard Trade Union Program.