How State Supreme Court Justices Are Selected
In the United States, all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C. have at least one court that serves as a state’s highest judicial body.
Analysis
Read more to find out everything you need to know about democracy and voting rights from Democracy Docket’s desk. Use the drop-down menu to organize by topic.
The Federal Judge Confirmation Process and Blue Slips, Explained
How is a federal judge confirmed? What does the process look like in the U.S. Senate and what is a “blue slip?”
Who Can and Cannot Sue To Protect Voters? It Depends on This Legal Concept
Lawsuits seeking to enforce voting rights laws are a crucial tool in defending and expanding the right to vote, but there’s an ongoing debate over who has the right to bring these lawsuits in the first place.
Section 11(b) of the VRA Protects Voters From Intimidation
Section 11(b) of the Voting Rights Act outlaws any act that is likely to intimidate voters. As other portions of the VRA are dismantled, Section 11(b) is a crucial protection that remains shockingly relevant in 2023.
Here’s How a Recount Works
There are many factors dictating what a recount will look like — vote margin, hand or machine count, and other state laws guiding the process. Every state has different rules and timelines for their recounts.
How Congress Addressed the Issues of the 2000 Presidential Election
On the 20th anniversary of Help America Vote Act’s enactment, we’re explaining how the 2000 election spurred federal legislation, what the HAVA did and how it is still used in litigation today.
What To Expect in the Courtroom
When perusing Democracy Docket’s website, you’ll see mentions of hearings, trials and oral arguments in ongoing litigation. What’s the difference between these courtroom events and what can you expect at the conclusion of each?
How States Purge Voters From the Rolls
In this Explainer, we walk you through the voter purge process to show how valid registrations can end up being canceled. The specifics vary between states and can differ depending on the reason your registration is canceled.
Racial Gerrymandering vs. Racial Vote Dilution, Explained
Racially discriminatory maps can be challenged multiple ways in court. In this Explainer, we break down the difference between racial gerrymandering and racial vote dilution claims and when you might see them in lawsuits.
Making Voting Accessible With Section 208 of the VRA
A key, but often overlooked, provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 is Section 208, which states that all individuals who need assistance when voting can receive that assistance from a person of their choice.
