Category Archives: elections

A Vigorous and Strong Democracy?

In my last post, I examined increases in voter turnout and concluded that American democracy appeared strong and vigorous.  Critics, however, dispute this claim by comparing U.S. voter turnout to other developed countries.  The comparison typically draws a much less favorable portrait of American democracy.    So let’s consider that comparison.  Voter turnout by countryContinue reading “A Vigorous and Strong Democracy?”

Victory in November?

Lately, I have read and watched a surprising number of Democratic elites – politicians, pollsters, pundits and media folk – confidently promise victory.       The narrative goes something like this.    November marks the end of Donald Trump’s four-year reign.  Joe Biden needs only to select a running mate, receive formal nomination, and run aContinue reading “Victory in November?”

Polling Locations: Yes, a Partisan Advantage

Several days before the special congressional election in California’s 25th Congressional District, Los Angeles County election officials decided to add an in-person voting center in Lancaster, one of the more diverse cities in the district.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are very few in-person polling sites and the election is largely a mail-in ballotContinue reading “Polling Locations: Yes, a Partisan Advantage”

Gun Sales and Voter Choice – A Potential Connection?

Coronavirus fears have emptied supermarkets.  Now, they are depleting gun stores.  Gun buyers anticipate civil unrest caused by the extended health crisis and a looming economic collapse.  Amid the uncertainty, they turn to guns.  According to FBI figures, 3.7 million background checks were conducted last month, which translated to roughly 2 million guns sold.  TheContinue reading “Gun Sales and Voter Choice – A Potential Connection?”