When voting for
candidates in a democratic country, citizens choose a candidate they think
would best represent their interests. Voters can also re-elect the officials
they agreed with and kick the ones they disagree with. In America, voting is a
fundamental human right that the American constitution provides. However, over
the past years, censuses indicate a low voter turnout and participation rate.
In Massachusetts, during 1998-2008 elections, of the 60% registered voters, only
40% voted in the congressional elections.[1]
What will the congress do to increase voter turnout? In other words, how will
the next 4th congressional district do to improve voting performance
rate in the district?
Nowadays, in most states, people are required
to show a photo ID before they can vote. The problem is not everyone has a
photo ID. Sean proposes in congress to restore the voting register. This will
in turn, restore the trust in the voting process and participatory model.[2]
Joe too believes there is a problem with people not being able to provide ID in
order to vote. However, Joe differs slightly from his opponent Sean. Joe
proposes, if elected, not supporting government that requires low income
families, low income individuals to get photo ID in order to exercise their
fundamental rights. Joe will push for congress in changing laws that will help
support those who are on financial assistance. In addition, Joe will push for
more civil groups that increase voter turnout. Two examples of civil groups are
Rock the vote, an organization that helps people, in particular the younger
population, to vote on college campuses. Encouraging civil groups will help
bring people together. This will increase voter turnout during elections.
Work
Cited
Kenneth, Janda & et. “The Challenge of Democracy American
Government in Global Politics, Essentials Editions. Eight Edition. 2012
p.164-78
United States Census Bureau “Voting
Trends in Massachusetts” http://smpbff1.dsd.census.gov/TheDataWeb_HotReport/servlet/HotReportEngineServlet?reportid=398fab72c85a12476d7f6ee708a63c75&emailname=essb@boc&filename=0328a.hrml
Sean
Bielat- Joe Kennedy III Debate at Wellesley College (Part 5/7) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzMwZvXZhPE&NR=1&feature=endscreen
[1] United States Census Bureau “Voting Trends in
Massachusetts” http://smpbff1.dsd.census.gov/TheDataWeb_HotReport/servlet/HotReportEngineServlet?reportid=398fab72c85a12476d7f6ee708a63c75&emailname=essb@boc&filename=0328a.hrml
[2] Sean Bielat- Joe Kennedy III Debate at Wellesley
College (Part 5/7) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzMwZvXZhPE&NR=1&feature=endscreen
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