State judiciaries constitute a critically important institution within American democracy, handling more than 90% of all cases in the United States. In 2021, legislators introduced more than 150 bills in 35 states that would weaken the power and independence of state courts, more than any year in recent decades.

Despite gains made in voter turnout in 2020, 19 states passed laws restricting voter access in 2021.

In 2021, legislators introduced more than 150 bills in 35 states that would weaken the power and independence of state courts, more than any year in recent decades.

Since the 2020 election, there have been a series of voting laws passed in states across the nation. In 2021, 11 states enacted voting laws that only make it harder for Americans to vote. 17 states passed only expansive voting laws in 2021, and 8 states passed a combination of both expansive and restrictive voting laws.

Survey research and, most glaringly, political polls have become less reliable and predictive in recent years due to declining response rates, and the fact those who do respond may be different than those who do not.

Undercounts (and overcounts) affect state and federal political representation and funding for necessities such as infrastructure, children’s programs, and health care. Texas, for example, has one of the highest estimated undercounts, causing Texans to potentially lose out on over $247 million of Medicaid funding annually.

The United States has a long history of protests as an important and effective form of civic activism. Nearly 2,500 protests have taken place across the South since January 1, 2021 — occurring across every state.

Despite concerns that the pandemic might depress voting rates, voter turnout was at a record high in the 2020 presidential election. Since the 2020 election, there has been a series of restrictive voting laws introduced across the country.