Freedom to Vote Act: Pros, Cons, and Impact on U.S. Elections
Background The Freedom to Vote Act (FTVA) is a bill under consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives that would expand protections for voting rights in the United States. The bill was originally introduced in 2019 during the 116th U.S. Congress as the For the People Act (FTPA). After being blocked in the Senate, the […]
Automatic Voter Registration: A Closer Look at the Ongoing Debate
In all states except North Dakota, eligible voters must register to vote before casting a ballot in any election. Each state’s voter registration requirements vary, but most states retain voters’ name, date of birth, address, and party affiliation. While the 1993 Voter Registration Act (also known as the “Motor Voter” law) allowed eligible voters to […]
Showdown in New York: Tim Walz and JD Vance Face Off in a High-Stakes Vice Presidential Debate
Tuesday, October 1st marked the first and only Vice Presidental debate between Democratic candidate Governor Tim Walz and Republican candidate Senator JD Vance. Hosted by CBS, the debate took place a the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City. Like the Presidential debate, this debate had no audience. Additionally, candidates were not allowed to bring […]
Understanding the Contraception Regulation Debate: Legal, Moral and Regulatory Implications
Background What is contraception? Reproductive health access has been a consistent topic in American politics since the Supreme Court’s recent Dobbs v. Jackson decision, which overturned the constitutional right to an abortion established in Roe v. Wade. One aspect of this debate is the right to contraception, which was first affirmed through Griswold v. Connecticut […]
Understanding the Rural Hospital Reimbursement Debate: The Medicare Wage Index Dilemma and Budget Neutrality
Background and Introduction In 2021, Medicare accounted for $900 billion, or 21% of U.S. healthcare spending, making it a critical revenue source for hospitals. The way Medicare reimbursements are governed is a contentious issue, particularly due to the significant impact on rural hospitals, which often receive lower payments for their services. A key factor in […]
Understanding US Relations with Switzerland: Key Insights into Trade, Diplomacy, and Strategic Interests.
Introduction Switzerland, known for its neutrality, abstains from military alliances and international conflicts, playing a significant role in global peace and diplomacy. It frequently hosts diplomatic conferences on international humanitarian law. Over time, shared characteristics in their political systems and joint efforts in international organizations have strengthened relations between the United States and Switzerland. Currently, […]
Understanding U.S. Relations with Germany: History, Trade, and Strategic Interests
Introduction Germany is the largest economy in Europe by GDP. Its diplomatic ties with the United States play a significant role in ensuring political stability in Europe and fostering economic development between the two nations. Alongside the United States, the European Union stands as a key supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Currently, […]
Trump vs Harris: Unbiased Coverage of the Second Presidential Debate 2024
Tuesday, September 10th, marked the second presidential debate but the first match-up between the Republican nominee: former President Donald Trump and the Democrat nominee: current Vice-President Kamala Harris. Originally scheduled to be between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, Harris took Biden’s place in the debate after he ended his re-election campaign and endorsed Harris in […]
Understanding the Debate on Neurorights and Personal Identity in Neurotechnology
In recent years, significant advancements in neurotechnology promise to profoundly impact healthcare and human capabilities. As technologies such as Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs), Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS), and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) evolve, they can potentially blur the boundary between a person’s consciousness and external technological influences. Examples of Neurotechnologies Conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and […]
Understanding The Debate on Facial Recognition Technology in Policing: Pros, Cons, and Privacy Concerns
Introduction A facial image is like a fingerprint: a unique piece of human data that can identify an individual or connect them to a crime. Law enforcement uses facial recognition to identify suspects, monitor large crowds, and ensure public safety. Facial recognition software is used by local, state, and federal law enforcement, but its adoption […]