Democrats are facing criticism, but this time it comes from within their own party. With Republicans dominating the political sphere, people are urging the Democrats to step up and toughen up.

The Texas redistricting effort is a blatant power grab that violates the democratic principles this country is supposed to abide by. Not only is it an indicator of the declining health of the American Republic, it ushers in a cascade of further gerrymandering, undercutting the voices of both Democrats and Republicans around the country.

The recent federal shutdown displays how abrupt pauses on government programs can create widespread harm without always delivering reform. If we want a leaner, more efficient government, reform must come through precision tools like public-private partnerships, and not total shutdowns.

Even as the GOP embraces authoritarianism and accelerates wealth transfers to the rich, the Democratic Party’s time-worn message isn’t proving an effective counter.

Voting registration dates can create a sizable barrier for citizens trying to vote. Same-day voting registration has arisen as a practical solution to aid in expanding access to the polls and increasing voter turnout, but faces numerous obstacles to be further implemented across the United States.