100% Democracy: The Case for Universal Voting

E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport make the case in their book 100% Democracy that universal voting should be a cornerstone of American democracy to protect against voter suppression and disenfranchisement. Australia's mandatory voting system results in high voter turnout and is celebrated as a civic duty.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: The New Press

In a timely and paradigm-shifting argument, E.J. Dionne, a renowned political expert, and Washington Post journalist, makes a compelling case for universal participation in elections as a fundamental principle of democracy. He argues that, just as Americans are obligated to fulfill various civic duties such as paying taxes, serving on juries, ensuring their children's vaccination, obtaining driver's licenses, and even engaging in military service, voting should be equally mandatory for all citizens.

Dionne and Miles Rapoport, in their book "100% Democracy," argue that implementing universal voting would be a powerful tool to combat voter suppression and the active disenfranchisement of a significant portion of our population. It would uphold the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, which aspires to a government based on the consent of the governed.

While some may perceive this as a radical or utopian idea, it is worth noting that countries like Australia have successfully implemented universal voting. In the last major election in 2019, 91.9 percent of Australians voted, compared to 60.1 percent in the 2016 presidential race in the United States. Australia even celebrates voting as a key civic duty, hosting voting-day parties and actively promoting participation.

The United States, as a mature and democratic nation, should take a significant step forward and recognize voting as both a fundamental civil right and a solemn civic duty required of every eligible U.S. citizen. By ensuring universal participation, we can strengthen our democracy, promote greater civic engagement, and ensure that the voices of all citizens are heard in the decision-making process.

In conclusion, E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport's argument for universal voting is a timely and important one. It is a call to action for the United States to embrace democracy's core values and ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to participate in shaping the future of our nation. By implementing universal voting, we can create a more inclusive and representative society and build a stronger and more resilient democracy for generations to come.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 199 x 141 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781620976777