Turboelectric drives of the time were heavier than their direct or geared drive counterparts. A turboelectric drive has to have a generator for each turbine and a motor for each propeller shaft, along with electrical switchgear to shunt power around in case of damage or changing throttle on independent shafts.

In 1922, the Washington Naval Treaty imposed limitations on ship displacement. Ship designers had to adjust their priorities to make battleships as effective as possible while remaining within treaty rules. The extra weight of turboelectric drives meant that Treaty battleships scrapped TE drive in favor of mechanical transmission.

TE drives also suffered a reputation of fragility under fire. At least one source seems to think that this was undeserved, however I am not qualified to give my opinion on that one way or the other.

Source: "Turboelectric Drive in American Capital Ships" by Joseph Czarnecki <link>