Is Voting Too Hard in the U.S.?

Above The Noise2 minutes read

Myles Bess shares his challenging voting experiences and highlights the low participation rate in the U.S. compared to other developed countries, emphasizing how barriers like strict voter ID laws and polling place closures disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Laura Brill stresses the need for systemic changes to enhance accessibility and engagement in voting, noting that low youth turnout leads to politicians neglecting issues vital to younger voters.

Insights

  • Myles Bess highlights the complexities of the voting process, sharing his personal experience of having to visit multiple polling locations in 2016, which reflects a broader issue where many eligible voters face significant barriers that can discourage participation, particularly among young and underrepresented groups.
  • Laura Brill stresses the importance of implementing systemic changes to enhance voting accessibility, pointing out that low turnout among young voters leads to a cycle of neglect from politicians regarding issues that matter to this demographic, thereby impacting civic engagement for future generations.

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Recent questions

  • What is voter ID law?

    Voter ID laws require individuals to present specific identification to vote. These laws are intended to prevent voter fraud, but they can create significant barriers for many eligible voters, particularly those who may not have the required forms of ID. Critics argue that these laws disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including low-income individuals, students, and communities of color, who may face challenges in obtaining the necessary identification. The debate surrounding voter ID laws often centers on the balance between ensuring election integrity and maintaining accessible voting for all citizens.

  • How can I register to vote?

    To register to vote, you typically need to complete a voter registration form, which can often be done online, by mail, or in person at designated locations. The specific process can vary by state, so it's important to check your local election office's website for detailed instructions. Many states also offer pre-registration initiatives, allowing individuals to register before election day, which can help streamline the voting process. Additionally, ensuring that you are aware of registration deadlines is crucial, as they can differ significantly depending on the state and the type of election.

  • What are the benefits of voting?

    Voting is a fundamental way for citizens to express their opinions and influence government decisions. It allows individuals to have a say in the policies and leaders that affect their lives, from local issues to national governance. Participating in elections can lead to greater representation of diverse perspectives and interests, particularly for underrepresented groups. Moreover, voting fosters civic engagement and encourages individuals to stay informed about political issues, contributing to a more active and informed citizenry. Ultimately, voting is a powerful tool for shaping the future of communities and the nation.

  • Why is youth voter turnout low?

    Youth voter turnout is often low due to a combination of factors, including lack of awareness about the voting process, feelings of disenfranchisement, and barriers such as strict voter ID laws and polling place closures. Many young people may not feel that their votes matter or may be discouraged by the complexities of registration and voting. Additionally, systemic issues, such as politicians not addressing the concerns of younger voters, can perpetuate this cycle of low engagement. To combat this, initiatives aimed at increasing civic education and making the voting process more accessible are essential for empowering young voters.

  • What is the Voting Rights Act?

    The Voting Rights Act, enacted in 1965, was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at eliminating racial discrimination in voting. It sought to protect the voting rights of all citizens, particularly African Americans in the South, who faced numerous barriers to voting. The Act included provisions to monitor elections and prevent discriminatory practices, such as literacy tests and poll taxes. However, a 2013 Supreme Court decision weakened some of its key protections, allowing states with histories of discrimination to implement restrictive voting laws. This has raised concerns about the ongoing struggle for equitable access to the ballot box for all citizens.

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Summary

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Barriers to Voting and Youth Engagement

  • Myles Bess, a journalist and host of "Above the Noise," reflects on his voting experiences, noting that despite voting in every election since turning 18, the process can be complicated and discouraging, as evidenced by his experience in 2016 when he had to visit three polling locations to vote.
  • In the 2016 election, only about 61% of eligible voters participated in the U.S., significantly lower than other developed nations like Belgium (87.2% in 2014), Turkey (84.3% in 2015), and Sweden (82.5% in 2014), highlighting the challenges faced by young and underrepresented voters.
  • Barriers to voting include strict voter ID laws, voter purges, and polling place closures, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals, students, disabled persons, seniors, and communities of color, which can lead to longer wait times and reduced access to voting.
  • The 1965 Voting Rights Act aimed to protect voting rights, but a 2013 Supreme Court decision weakened its provisions, allowing states with histories of discrimination, such as Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama, to implement restrictive laws like photo ID requirements, which can disenfranchise approximately 21 million eligible voters without government-issued IDs.
  • While proponents of voter ID laws argue they prevent fraud, reports indicate only a handful of documented cases of voter fraud in recent elections, suggesting that these laws may create more barriers than they resolve, particularly for young and marginalized voters.
  • Solutions to improve voter participation include pre-registration initiatives in high schools, online voter registration, and enhanced civics education to empower young people to understand their voting rights and the importance of their participation in democracy.
  • Laura Brill, a voting rights lawyer, emphasizes the need for systemic changes to make voting more accessible and engaging, warning that low youth turnout perpetuates a cycle where politicians ignore the issues important to younger voters, ultimately affecting civic engagement across generations.
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