The U.S.'s Missed Opportunity: Making Election Day a Federal Holiday
When: The Historic Moment
Throughout history, the United States has faced pivotal moments where the path it took would forever shape its future. One such moment came in the late 19th century, when the nation grappled with the question of whether or not to designate Election Day as a federal holiday.
Why: The Arguments For and Against
Supporters of making Election Day a holiday argued that it would increase voter turnout, particularly among marginalized communities who faced barriers to voting. They believed that giving all citizens the day off would make it easier for them to participate in the electoral process.
Opponents, however, raised concerns about the financial burden it would place on businesses and the potential for increased absenteeism. They also argued that it was unnecessary, as most states already had laws in place that allowed people to take time off from work to vote.
How: The Missed Chance
Despite the significant debate, Congress ultimately failed to pass legislation that would have made Election Day a federal holiday. The issue remained unresolved for decades, and as a result, the United States still lacks a nationwide guarantee of time off for voting.
Several factors contributed to the failure of these efforts. Partisan politics, regional differences, and the influence of special interest groups all played a role in preventing a consensus from emerging.
The Consequences
The decision not to make Election Day a federal holiday has had lasting consequences for American democracy. Low voter turnout, particularly among certain demographics, remains a persistent problem. And while some states have made progress in expanding early voting and other accommodations, there is still a significant gap in access to the electoral process.
Had the U.S. made Election Day a holiday a century ago, it is likely that voter turnout would be higher today, and the voices of all Americans would be better represented in the halls of power. The missed opportunity remains a reminder of the shortcomings of our electoral system and the ongoing challenges faced by those seeking to participate fully in their democracy.