Our weekly op-ed highlight reel
News is the heart of what we're about. But The Fulcrum is also a forum for debate about what's ailing American democracy and what could make the system healthier. So here are the most provocative opinion pieces we've posted this week.
Why Trump's lies aren't the sort this democracy usually tolerates
"Deception and dishonesty were part of the Trump brand long before he entered politics. And since he became president Trump has succeeded in numbing the public to them," according to Amherst College Associate Provost Austin Sarat.
Presidential years are a time for the parties to promote gender equity
"Before our memories of this year's unusual Democratic and Republican national conventions fade from view, it's important to remember one thing we saw that was not so different: Women remain underrepresented at all levels of the political process, including party leadership," says law student and RepresentWomen intern Claire Halffield.
Lessons from a local election 57 years ago for boosting turnout now
"One way to address low turnout is to increase the number of potential voters. And one way to do that is by allowing eligible voters with valid ID to register and vote on the same day. Research suggests the 21 states with same-day registration have consistently higher turnout," writes engineer and political activist Paul Van Buskirk.
Meanwhile, here are our latest news stories:
Burst of legal victories gives hope to promoters of a comprehensive election
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Trump's FEC appointee labels the election as 'spiritual war'
Meet the reformer: Myrna Pérez, advocate for a trustworthy election in the pandemic