The United States is a representative democracy. The idea is that we’re a government "by the people" (we vote officials into office) and "for the people" (the officials in office are supposed to represent our interests). But it’s not so straightforward around here.

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When you take that golden idea and add restrictive voter laws, billions of dollars, and a whacky electoral system, representation takes on a whole different hue. But...you should vote anyway. This episode explains why.

Featuring:

Nazita Lajevardi, assistant professor, political scientist, lawyer. Lajevardi teaches at Michigan State University

Kim Wehle, professor of law at the University of Baltimore School of Law

Andrea Hailey, CEO of vote.org

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Why You Should Vote (Even When They Don't Want You To)

Civics 101