Feature

The legacy of Bush v. Gore

Ten years after that controversial decision divided the nation, Americans no longer believe in the fairness of our country’s elections, said Richard L. Hasen in Slate.com.

Richard L. Hasen
Slate.com

Bush v. Gore left the country with one “central legacy,” said Richard L. Hasen. Ten years after that controversial decision divided the nation, Americans no longer believe in the fairness of our country’s elections. Before 2000, most people accepted the results of democratic voting, even when the results were razor-thin. But that all ended when the Supreme Court voted 5–4, in December 2000, to end the disputed Florida recount and hand the White House to George W. Bush. That year, political operatives and partisans learned that our voting system is flawed and inaccurate, and that “it makes sense to fight rather than concede.”

Now even congressional and state races often end in “hyperpartisan controversy,” charges of cheating, and protracted lawsuits. Both political parties exploit this fear: Republicans now routinely rile up their base with unsubstantiated charges of widespread voter fraud, while Democrats accuse Republicans of systematically suppressing poor and minority votes. The U.S. used to be a nation with a profound respect for democracy; since Bush v. Gore, we suspect that our votes aren’t really counted, and that elections are stolen, not won.

Recommended

Saving Spots initiative protects wildcats and cultural traditions in Zambia
A leopard in the wild.
a leopard can change its spots

Saving Spots initiative protects wildcats and cultural traditions in Zambia

Thousands march for democracy in Poland
Protesters march in Poland against the government.
A Polish Protest

Thousands march for democracy in Poland

10 things you need to know today: June 4, 2023
The aftermath of a deadly train crash in India.
Daily briefing

10 things you need to know today: June 4, 2023

More than 260 killed and 900 injured in Indian train crash
The aftermath of a deadly train crash in India.
Rest in Peace

More than 260 killed and 900 injured in Indian train crash

Most Popular

Is Trump's wall working?
International Border Wall Between Tecate California and Tecate Mexico.
Briefing

Is Trump's wall working?

Can Chris Christie make a comeback?
A black and white photo of Chris Christie waving
Profile

Can Chris Christie make a comeback?

YouTube to stop deleting false claims about 2020 election
The YouTube logo seen in London in 2019.
Reversing Course

YouTube to stop deleting false claims about 2020 election