Universal Voting

U.S. voters turned out in record numbers in 2020, hitting a 13 percent jump from 2016. Even so, the country lags behind many other democracies – including Belgium, Sweden, Australia, Uruguay, and South Korea – when it comes to voting. How would our country be transformed if we did away with arguments over voting rights and instead committed to an election process where every citizen not only has the right to vote, but a requirement to do so?

Twenty-six countries require participation in their elections. In 100% Democracy: The Case for Universal Voting, co-authors E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport argue that the United States should follow in their footsteps. After all, Americans are required to pay taxes and serve on juries. This conversation included the authors and New York City Council member Alexa Avilés about universal voting and how to implement it.

Produced in partnership with the NYU Brennan Center and the NYU John Brademas Center. The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law provides reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Requests for accommodations for events and services should be submitted at least two weeks if possible before the date of the accommodation need. Please email adrienne.yee@nyu.edu or call 646-925-8728 for assistance.