joe biden
 · 2 min read
 · Angelina Jolly
Table of contents

Joe Biden's Drive for Voting Rights: Key Initiatives and Actions

Introduction

The protection of voting rights and the fight against voter suppression have become central issues in American politics, especially following the 2020 elections. Joe Biden's administration has taken a proactive stance aimed at advancing equitable access to the ballot box. This article details the various strategies, policies, and legislative measures implemented under his leadership to promote voting rights and combat suppression efforts.

Details

  • American Rescue Plan Act of 2021

    • It provided funding to help states secure their election infrastructure.
    • Included provisions for voter accessibility, ensuring that funds could be used to improve polling places and mail-in voting options.

  • Supporting the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act

    • Biden has publicly endorsed this legislation aimed at restoring and strengthening provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
    • The act seeks to combat discriminatory voting laws by requiring jurisdictions with a history of discrimination to seek federal approval for changes to their voting laws.

  • Executive Orders on Voting Rights

    • Biden signed executive orders aimed to safeguard voting access and to promote voter registration.
    • Directed federal agencies to expand access to voter registration and ensure voting rights are protected at the federal level.

  • Promoting Early Voting and Mail-In Voting

    • The administration has championed initiatives to expand early voting and mail-in voting opportunities, particularly in regions that have historically faced challenges in accessing these options.
    • Advocated for regulatory changes to facilitate the ballot-by-mail process, ensuring it is secure and widely accessible.

  • Engagement with State Legislatures

    • The White House has actively engaged with state lawmakers to prevent the introduction of restrictive voting laws.
    • Encouraged states to adopt policies that enhance rather than restrict access to voting.

  • Supporting Voter Education Initiatives

    • The Biden administration has allocated resources to public awareness campaigns that educate voters about their rights and the voting process.
    • Collaborated with non-profits and community organizations to disseminate information regarding voting locations, registration deadlines, and new voting laws.

  • Advocacy Against Voter ID Laws

    • Biden has spoken against stringent voter ID laws that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
    • Supported legal challenges against laws perceived to disenfranchise voters based on identification requirements.

  • Promotion of Congressional Voting Rights Legislation

    • Apart from the John Lewis Act, Biden has advocated for the For the People Act, which includes provisions for automatic and same-day voter registration.
    • Pushes for measures aimed at reducing gerrymandering and improving transparency in political campaign financing.

  • International Observations and Integrity

    • The administration has called for international observers to ensure free and fair elections within the United States, emphasizing the integrity of the democratic process.
    • Encourages practices that align with international standards for transparent and accessible electoral processes.

Conclusion

In response to widespread concerns regarding voter suppression and the integrity of elections, the Biden administration has pursued a comprehensive set of initiatives to safeguard and promote voting rights. Through legislative support, executive actions, stakeholder engagement, and public education, Biden's efforts reflect a commitment to ensuring that every eligible American can exercise their right to vote without unnecessary barriers. As these initiatives continue to unfold, the ongoing dialogue surrounding voting rights remains at the forefront of American democracy.