SUMMARY
Voters will weigh in on more than 140 ballot measures next month in 40 states. From abortion to voter ID to debates over transgender rights, the measures touch nearly every corner of the political debate. Republicans are counting on some of them to energize their base in a tough midterm environment. Liz Landers discussed the issues with Reid Wilson of Pluribus News.
View the transcript of the story.
NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What do you want to learn more about? You can also make a Google doc copy of these general discussion questions.
News alternative: Check our recent segments from the News Hour and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. See the Google doc above for discussion questions.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is Reid Wilson, and what is his background?
- Which political party has high enthusiasm to vote? Which party doesn’t?
- How might the measure on abortion not help either party in the election?
- What are the two ways that ballot initiatives can make it to the ballot?
- Why is Governor Newsom against the billionaire tax?
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
- Why is it important to have different ways of getting initiatives onto the ballot? Why might this be efficient, inefficient or a mix of both? Explain your reasoning.
- If you could add one ballot initiative to your state elections, what would it be and why?
Media literacy: Out of the 140 ballot measures, list some of the top issues you think will be addressed in the midterm elections. What are some issues you would like to see on the ballot, or raise more awareness on?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
Watch this two-minute video from Columbus, Ohio news channel Spectrum News 1 titled “Midterm curse: Why the President's party tends to struggle in the midterms,” and answer the following questions:
- Historically, the midterms don’t go well for the party in power. Why is that the case?
- What are the consequences of low voter turnout for non-presidential elections?
Written by PBS News Hour Classroom's Intern Sophia Sharaa with editing from News Hour Classroom's Luke Gerwe
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