U.S. Elections and Democracy in Deeply Polarized Times: What are the Stakes and Opportunities?

2024 is another critical year for elections and democracy in the U.S., and this roundtable will consider some of the broader issues at stake. The upcoming elections provide opportunities to shape the future direction of the U.S. and California on various issues, including immigration, reproductive rights, economic policy, job creation, policing, and climate change. Join UCSC professors for an interactive discussion on the conditions and debates surrounding voters and institutions and what concerns are being raised about our constitutional democracy. This discussion will dive into representative politics and ballot initiatives and how toxic polarization, political distrust, and negative views affect progress from the presidency to Congress and the Supreme Court.