Rafael Gonzalez is a contributor for The Fulcrum, a nonpartisan publication dedicated to strengthening democracy by fostering informed civic engagement and elevating diverse perspectives.

A group of people wait in line to get their ballots to vote in the election.

Electoral Reforms

What America Can Do About Its Uncontested Elections

Seventy percent of America’s elections at all levels were uncontested in 2024, but they don’t have to be.

Sep 11, 2026

Voting booths stand ready for use in a U.S. election.

Democracy

Uncontested Elections Are Undermining American Democracy

Seventy percent of America’s elections at all levels were uncontested in 2024, part of a trend that is weakening democratic culture.

Sep 04, 2026

Electoral Reforms

America Has an Uncontested Elections Problem

Seventy percent of America’s elections at all levels were uncontested in 2024. The structure of American democracy is to blame.

Aug 21, 2026

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