Voting Rights: A Featured Controversy from Issues & Controversies

Featured in Issues & Controversies:
Voting Rights: Should Congress Pass a New Voting Rights Act?

Should Congress pass a new Voting Rights Act? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies’ complete and unbiased coverage of this divisive issue. Here is a sample of the pro/con arguments on both sides of the issue. 

SUPPORTERS ARGUE
Recent Republican-led changes to voting procedures have threatened the rights of low-income and minority voters. The U.S. Supreme Court was wrong to void the federal oversight provision of the Voting Rights Act, and new protections are necessary to ensure that African Americans and others retain their political voice.

OPPONENTS ARGUE
It is easier than ever for Americans to cast their ballots, and the strong-arm federal tactics of the Voting Rights Act are no longer necessary. Distrust in the integrity of the electoral system is widespread among the American public, and Democrats should not obstruct commonsense measures to prevent voter fraud.

The pro/con article links to rich related resources that enhance the debate. Students and researchers can explore the “By the Numbers” data, primary sources that provide context, court cases, debate videos, NPR podcasts, infographics, editorials, a Reuters® newsfeed, a chronology, and a bibliography and further resources. Plus, discussion questions are provided to inspire critical thinking and analysis.

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Issues & Controversies is a multimedia solution that helps students understand contemporary issues, assess different perspectives, distinguish fact from opinion, reach their own conclusions, and build critical thinking and writing skills. It features balanced pro/con articles and primary sources for current events, civics instruction, and class discussion.