Voting Rights and Elections
Nearly every state constitution includes an explicit right to vote, and many state constitutions have “free election” provisions, as well as provisions relating to redistricting, voter eligibility and registration, ballots access, and more. State constitutions also guarantee equal protection, speech, assembly, and other rights. State constitutions have taken on greater significance in the aftermath of Rucho v. Common Cause, in which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution cannot be used to address partisan gerrymandering, and a series of Supreme Court decisions limiting voters’ rights under the 14th and 15th Amendments and the Voting Rights Act.
State supreme courts around the country are being presented with challenges to voting district maps that are gerrymandered along partisan or racial and ethnic lines, litigation regarding ballot initiatives and ballot access, and challenges to laws that restrict voter eligibility or access, including reduced voting hours, felony disenfranchisement, or onerous voter identification requirements.
Filters
Voting Rights Under State Constitutions, Explained
All but one state constitution affirmatively establishes a right to vote.
The Stakes in Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court Election
The outcome could have big implications for abortion rights, elections, and more.
A Brief History of Colorado’s Constitution
Colorado’s constitutional history provides an ambivalent promise of human rights and social equality.
How Texas Law Lets the State Get Around Injunctions
An unusual state court procedure allows the attorney general to undo trial court rulings just by filing an appeal.
Washington Voters Used Their Constitutional Recall Power to Remove School Board Members
The Washington Supreme Court approved the recall effort despite the state constitution’s strict requirements for recalling officials.
Victims’ Rights Meet State Constitutions
The Maryland Supreme Court is considering appeals in the murder case of Adnan Syed, made famous by the “Serial” podcast.
Mississippi Supreme Court Blocks Part of Law Changing How Jackson Judges Are Selected
The court struck down the creation of new appointed circuit judges while leaving an inferior court intact
State Judges Must Guard Their Independence
The legislative assault on state supreme courts is one of the greatest threats to our system of checks and balances.