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How can electoral reform address the issue of voter suppression in the United States?

Gusta Sprason

The issue of voter suppression in the United States is one that has plagued the nation for decades, but it has become much more prevalent in recent years. Electoral reform offers a potential solution to this problem, but it would require a comprehensive approach that addresses the various ways in which voters are disenfranchised.

The first step in addressing voter suppression through electoral reform would be to ensure that every eligible voter is able to register and vote. This would require automatic voter registration, which would be implemented by the federal government. States would be required to provide the necessary information to the federal government to ensure that all eligible voters are registered.

Another important component of electoral reform would be to eliminate unnecessary voter ID requirements. These requirements disproportionately affect low-income and minority voters, as they are less likely to have the necessary identification. Instead, the government should implement same-day registration and voting, which would allow voters to register and vote on the same day.

In addition to making it easier to vote, electoral reform would also need to address gerrymandering, which is the practice of redrawing electoral boundaries in a manner that favors one political party over another. This practice has been used extensively to suppress minority votes and ensure that certain politicians remain in power. The solution to this problem would be to create independent redistricting commissions that are free from political influence.

Finally, electoral reform would also need to address the role that money plays in politics. The Citizens United ruling has allowed wealthy donors and corporations to donate massive amounts of money to politicians, which has given them an undue influence over the political process. To address this issue, the government should implement public financing of elections, which would provide equal funding for all campaigns and ensure that candidates are not beholden to wealthy donors.

In conclusion, electoral reform offers a potential solution to the issue of voter suppression in the United States. However, it would require a comprehensive approach that addresses the various ways in which voters are disenfranchised. This would include automatic voter registration, same-day registration and voting, independent redistricting, and public financing of elections. By implementing these reforms, the United States can ensure that every eligible voter is able to participate in the democratic process and have their voice heard.