When it comes to Americans’ ability to cast a ballot in free elections, there is at least some consensus. The newest Pew Research Center survey found that 94% — including 95% of both Republicans and Democrats — agree it’s important that legally qualified Americans be able to vote.
I’m tempted to inquire further about those in the small minority who disagreed — perhaps they misunderstood the question? — but for now, let’s take comfort in the fact that there’s overwhelming support for the core idea behind the franchise.
The trouble is the consensus breaks down soon after.
As political battles continue around the nation over voting access and restrictions, a new Pew Research Center survey finds that a majority of Americans (57%) say voting is “a fundamental right for every adult U.S. citizen and should not be restricted in any way.” Fewer (42%) express the view that “voting is a privilege that comes with responsibilities and can be limited if adult U.S. citizens don’t meet some requirements.”
Not surprisingly, the partisan and ideological divisions are enormous.
By a nearly four-to-one margin, Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents see voting as a fundamental right that should not be restricted. By a two-to-one margin, Republicans and Republican-leaning independents see voting as a privilege that can be limited.








