Guest E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport discuss the concept of universal voting, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, addressing voter imbalances and suppression, and the role of election officials. They also explore the potential implementation of universal voting in the United States and express hope for voting reforms.
Universal voting encourages greater participation and reduces the divisive nature of elections.
Starting with state-level initiatives can pave the way for universal voting nationwide.
Deep dives
Universal Voting: An Idea Worth Exploring
Universal voting is a concept that has been successfully implemented in about two dozen countries, including Australia and Belgium. In Australia, for instance, voting has been mandatory for over 100 years, with 97% of Australians registered to vote and 90% actually casting their ballots in each election. The idea is to make voting a duty for all citizens, encouraging greater participation and giving everyone a voice in the political process. By making voting universal, it would reduce the divisive nature of elections and shift the incentive for campaigns from suppressing votes to persuading voters. While there may be concerns about the enforcement and potential punishment for non-compliance, conscientious objector status could be an option. Overall, universal voting promotes a more inclusive and representative democracy.
States as Laboratories of Democracy
Rather than relying on federal legislation, the push for universal voting would likely begin at the state level. California could be a contender for adopting this system, but other states, such as Minnesota and Michigan, could also pave the way. By starting in a few states and municipalities, the momentum could build, generating pressure for other states to follow suit. The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which currently has 15 states and the District of Columbia as members, provides a similar example of states coming together to advance a common goal. While achieving universal voting nationwide may take time, progress can be made by focusing on state-level initiatives.
Refuting Partisan Concerns
There may be concerns that universal voting would disproportionately benefit one political party over another. However, the evidence suggests that it would create a more genuinely reflective electorate and encourage broad-based participation. By including all eligible citizens, regardless of age, income, or education level, universal voting would level the playing field and push political parties to appeal to a broader and more diverse electorate. It also has the potential to reduce the likelihood of voter suppression tactics, as politicians would be accountable to a more engaged citizenry. This idea is not about partisan advantage, but about strengthening our democracy as a whole.
Moving Towards a More Informed Electorate
One of the benefits of universal voting is that it incentivizes people to become more informed about the issues and engage in the political process. When voting becomes a duty, citizens are more likely to familiarize themselves with the candidates, policies, and voting procedures. This can lead to a more engaged electorate and more meaningful participation in the democratic process. Additionally, universal voting could help reduce the baseless claims of fraud by increasing transparency and legitimacy in the electoral system. While it may take time to shift the culture and increase public support for universal voting, it is a step towards a more inclusive and democratic society.
