Election Day: Should It Be a Holiday or a Right to Vote?

The debate over whether Election Day should be a public holiday has been a topic of discussion in the United States. While some argue that it should be, others believe that allowing workers to vote during working hours is sufficient. This article examines the advantages and disadvantages of making Election Day a federal holiday and the importance of ensuring that every eligible voter can exercise their right to vote.

Advantages of Making Election Day a Holiday

One of the main arguments in favor of making Election Day a federal holiday is the potential to increase voter turnout. When voting is not tied to work schedules or other commitments, more people are likely to exercise their right to vote. Additionally, a holiday status could reduce voter fatigue and increase trust in the electoral process, as it would allow voters to participate without any disruption to their daily lives. Stress and long lines at polling places could also be minimized, enhancing the overall voting experience.

Challenges and Considerations

While the idea of making Election Day a holiday seems appealing, there are several challenges and considerations. First, not all businesses might comply with such a requirement, leading to inconsistencies in how workers are treated. Many businesses, especially those in essential services, operate continuously and may not be able to close for a day. The healthcare sector, law enforcement, and utilities are examples of critical services that cannot afford to shut down, even for a federal holiday.

Moreover, the notion that making Election Day a holiday would significantly impact voter turnout or solve issues of voter suppression and trust in elections is often debated. Ensuring secure and accessible voting is a complex issue that requires comprehensive solutions. Unlike mask mandates and vaccination compliance, which are often viewed as personal choices, voting is a constitutional right and a civic duty. Therefore, making Election Day a federal holiday might be seen as unnecessary.

The Role of States in Voter Rights

Another key aspect is the role of states in preserving voter rights and making voting accessible. Since Election Day is essentially 51 separate elections, it is the responsibility of each state to ensure that their citizens can easily and securely vote. Allowing states to determine whether it should be a state holiday aligns with the decentralized nature of the American democratic system. Each state can make decisions based on its local context and voter needs.

States have different methods of ensuring high voter turnout, such as allowing early voting, implementing same-day registration, and providing mobile voting units. These measures do not require a federal holiday but can still make voting more convenient for citizens. The goal should be to create a voting environment that is accessible, secure, and trustworthy, without overburdening essential services or businesses.

Conclusion

The debate over whether Election Day should be a holiday is multifaceted. While it is important to maximize voter turnout and provide convenience, the current practices of early voting and on-demand voting options have shown to be effective. Ensuring that voting rights are protected and that the electoral process is secure is paramount. Whether Election Day becomes a federal holiday or not, the focus should remain on creating an environment where every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote freely and without undue obstacles.

Ultimately, the value of making Election Day a federal holiday lies in its potential to enhance the democratic process. However, practical considerations and the decentralized nature of American elections suggest that it might be more beneficial to focus on implementing robust voter protection measures and ensuring that all states have the resources to conduct free and fair elections.