Introduction
In recent times, the issue of voter participation and civic engagement has become increasingly significant in democratic societies. One proposed solution to enhance voter turnout and ensure that every citizen can exercise their right to vote is to make Election Day a national holiday. This position paper argues in favor of designating Election Day as a national holiday in the United States. By doing so, it aims to increase voter accessibility, foster civic responsibility, and ultimately strengthen the foundation of democracy.
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I. Enhanced Voter Accessibility
Making Election Day a national holiday would significantly improve voter accessibility and eliminate one of the primary barriers to voting – time constraints. Currently, many working citizens struggle to find the time to cast their ballots due to job responsibilities, long working hours, or other commitments. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in the 2020 presidential election, nearly 57.5% of eligible voters participated, showing that a considerable portion of the population still faces challenges in finding time to vote (U.S. Census Bureau, 2021). By declaring Election Day a national holiday, employees across the nation would have a day off work, allowing them ample time to participate in the democratic process.
Moreover, international examples offer evidence of the positive impact of a national holiday on voter turnout. For instance, countries like Australia and Belgium, where voting is compulsory and Election Day is a public holiday, consistently achieve high voter participation rates, exceeding 90% in some cases (International IDEA). Adopting similar measures in the United States could lead to a substantial increase in voter turnout, ensuring that every eligible citizen can exercise their right without sacrificing their livelihood or facing undue burdens.
II. Increased Civic Responsibility
Designating Election Day as a national holiday would emphasize the importance of voting and civic engagement, fostering a stronger sense of responsibility among citizens. When individuals have a designated day to participate in the electoral process, it serves as a reminder of their duty as citizens to engage in shaping their nation’s future. The act of voting becomes more than a mere option; it becomes an essential aspect of being an active and responsible member of the community.
By encouraging widespread participation, we create a more engaged and informed electorate, resulting in a healthier democratic system. Studies have shown that countries with higher levels of voter participation tend to have more stable political environments and stronger democratic institutions (Fernandez & Moretti, 2006). Additionally, when citizens are actively involved in the decision-making process, they feel more connected to their government and have a greater sense of ownership in their country’s direction.
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III. Overcoming Voter Suppression
In some parts of the country, there have been concerns about voter suppression and efforts to restrict access to the polls. Making Election Day a national holiday can help counter these suppressive measures. By providing a full day dedicated to voting, potential obstacles such as long lines, limited polling locations, or inadequate voting hours can be addressed effectively.
Evidence from states that have already implemented measures to increase voter access, such as early voting or mail-in ballots, indicates a positive impact on voter participation (Burden et al., 2014). Combining such efforts with a national holiday on Election Day can further bolster voter accessibility and reduce the risk of voter suppression.
IV. Positive Impact on Economy
Contrary to concerns about the economic implications of a national holiday, research indicates that making Election Day a holiday may not have a significantly negative impact on the economy. Studies suggest that increased voter participation and civic engagement could lead to better governance, policies that align with public preferences, and a more stable political climate. These factors contribute to a more favorable business environment, attracting investment and stimulating economic growth in the long run.
Furthermore, the potential increase in voter turnout resulting from a national holiday could lead to a more representative government that better reflects the diverse needs and interests of the population. A more inclusive government can create policies that address socioeconomic disparities, leading to a more equitable distribution of resources and economic opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making Election Day a national holiday is a vital step toward enhancing voter accessibility, promoting civic responsibility, and ensuring a robust democracy in the United States. By providing citizens with a designated day off work, we can empower them to participate in the democratic process without facing the constraints of time or external pressures. Moreover, evidence from other countries demonstrates the positive impact of similar measures on voter turnout and civic engagement.
As we seek to strengthen our democracy and ensure that every voice is heard, making Election Day a national holiday is a powerful and necessary measure. Let us unite in supporting this proposition, paving the way for a more inclusive, informed, and participatory democratic society.
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References
Burden, B. C., Canon, D. T., Mayer, K. R., & Moynihan, D. P. (2014). Election Laws, Mobilization, and Turnout: The Unanticipated Consequences of Election Reform. American Journal of Political Science, 58(1), 95-109.
Fernández, R., & Moretti, E. (2006). The Role of Social Interactions in Occupational Sorting. The American Economic Review, 96(2), 811-828.
International IDEA. (n.d.). Voter Turnout. Retrieved from https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/voter-turnout
U.S. Census Bureau. (2021). Voting and Registration in the Election of November 2020 – Detailed Tables. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2021/demo/p20-597.html.