Midterm elections will take place on Tuesday, November 8th this year. Trust in our election system is vital to a democratic system. Concerns about the integrity of our elections lead to public discussions about how to limit voter fraud and ensure that the voice of every eligible voter is counted. Certain debates throughout our nation’s history have centered around the issue of voting rights, which will surely continue during the leadup to the midterm elections in November. 

Those who argue that the United States needs to do more to protect voting rights argue that recent laws passed by states like limiting mail-in-ballots and stricter voter ID requirements amount to voter suppression. They contend that in general, the government should work to make it easier to vote. This side claims that measures like mail-in-voting, election day holidays, and fewer requirements to vote will better protect voting rights and allow everyone’s voice be heard in the political process. 

Those who argue that the United States does not need to better protect voting rights claim that sufficient protections already exist. They contend that voter fraud is a legitimate concern and that, if anything, more laws should be passed to ensure illegal voting does not occur. They may argue that measures like mail-in-ballots and fewer requirements to vote increase the opportunity for illicit voting, which will prevent the will of the people from being heard. 

So, what do you think? Does the United States Need to Better Protect Voting Rights? Students can answer Yes, it does; No, it does not; or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your answer by November 2nd for it to be considered for this week’s contest. 

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:      

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner     
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers      
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors      
• They address counterarguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner      
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly   

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 10/20/22 to 11/2/22, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

(For rules/regulations click HERE)