Citizens voting directly on policy seems like a good idea. But that led to the Brexit mess in the UK. In the US, two scholars say direct democracy deepens distrust of politics and government.
The idea that a small payment could motivate more people to vote resurfaces regularly, but this ignores evidence that monetary incentives to induce pro-social behaviour can be counterproductive.
Maria Bargh, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington et Arama Rata, University of Waikato
The failure of the 2018 census to get a good response rate highlights the need for multiple voting options to increase participation, particularly of Māori.
About one-third of Canadians don’t bother to vote in federal elections. Many people cite “everyday life issues,” like the time it takes to vote, as reasons why they don’t participate.
Young people have the right, the skills and the numbers to make a difference in politics and society in North America and beyond. Their voices, energy and vision contribute to a healthy democracy.
The Voting Rights Act offers language assistance for voters with limited English proficiency. What can we learn from an Idaho county’s experience offering foreign-language ballots?
Latinos are less likely than other Americans to vote in November, new polling shows. Here’s why Democrats shouldn’t expect a Latino blue wave to swing the midterms in their favor.
There are different ballots, voting machines, registration and eligibility requirements and procedures for counting votes across the country. That’s a recipe for occasional confusion and miscounts.