ABSTRACT
The formal and informal seniority system in American politics gives a select group of older people direct access to power and influence. This chapter presents the details of major legislation and policies in the United States that supports the needs of older people. Culture, language, and literacy barriers may keep some minority older people from voting. Studies of voting show that voting participation increases with education Among those age 65 to 74, only 37.2 percent of people with grade 9–12 education, but less than a high school diploma, voted in the November 2014 election. Older people in the case voted for the loser of the election. Some writers predict that this high voter turnout and the growing number of older people will create a power bloc. In the United States, older people make up a high proportion of political officeholders, and the highest political posts often have the oldest people in them.
