Political Affairs

By: Danny Nickel and Brandon Emons

Published: Fall 2023

Abstract: The policy memo grapples with the persistent issue of low voter turnout and voter apathy in the UnitedStates, revealing that approximately one-third of eligible voters abstained in the 2020 Presidential Election. It underscores the global context, ranking the U.S. 31st out of 49 countries in voter turnout. This memo identifies barriers to voting, such as restrictive registration and the perception that individual votes lack impact, presenting them as challenges to be addressed through policy reforms. Proposing ranked choice voting (RCV) as a remedy, the memo explores its implementation in Alaska, Maine, and New York, showcasing data indicating increased voter satisfaction, diverse candidate representation, and a more civil electoral discourse. The recommended policy approach advocates for a phased introduction of RCV, starting at the local and state levels, with the aim of gradually addressing voter disillusionment and enhancing democratic engagement.

By: Savannah Gindah, Alexa Jimeno, and Katie Wolter

笔耻产濒颈蝉丑别诲:听Spring 2026

Abstract: Social media platforms have become the primary spaces for public discourse and political engagement, yet they operate outside of First Amendment protections because they are privately owned companies. This policy memo examines the growing tension between free expression and private platform control in the digital age, focusing on the role of Section 230 and the power platforms hold over content moderation and algorithmic amplification. As social media continues to expand globally, with approximately 5.79 billion users worldwide, platform decisions increasingly shape public opinion, democratic participation, and access to information (DataReportal, 2026). This memo argues that policymakers should focus on transparency, accountability, and process-based regulation rather than direct government control of speech content. Recommended policies include increasing transparency in moderation practices, ensuring due process protections for users, and limiting harmful amplification without requiring full censorship. Ultimately, this approach seeks to balance freedom of expression with harm reduction while preserving democratic values in the digital age.

 

By: Ryan McCaskill-Schock, Ayla Gonzales, Terrence Pittman

笔耻产濒颈蝉丑别诲:听Spring 2026

Abstract: This memo examines the Supreme Court鈥檚 power to choose which cases it hears and argues that the process should be more transparent. Each year, thousands of petitions are denied without explanation, even though those decisions can shape laws and rights nationwide. The memo proposes requiring the Court to give brief public reasons for granting or denying certiorari. While this could invite criticism, it argues that greater transparency would ultimately strengthen public trust in the Court

 

By: Audrey Nott, and Isaac Chandler

笔耻产濒颈蝉丑别诲:听Spring 2026

Abstract:聽The American electoral system could be significantly reshaped due to new proposed federal election legislation, including the SAVE Act, the SAVE America Act, and the MEGA Act. With an upcoming midterm election in the near future, the implementation of new federal voting requirements could create administrative challenges for state and local election officials. This will impact voter registration, election administration, and compliance measures. This policy memo analyzes the potential effects of these proposals, while also considering the broader debate between federal oversight and state control of elections.