Politics

Should noncitizen permanent residents vote in local elections? Local taxes and community ties support inclusion, while citizenship provides a clear membership boundary.

Should people in prison retain the right to vote? Punishment can restrict liberty without necessarily ending a person's stake in collective decisions.

Should national leaders have to pass a public competence assessment? An assessment might expose weaknesses, but whoever designs it gains political power.

Should lifetime judicial appointments be abolished? Long tenure can protect independence while insulating powerful officials from consequences.

Should courts be allowed to overturn a popular referendum? Majority rule can conflict with rights that a constitution promises to protect.

Should judges be elected by the public? Elections offer accountability, but campaign pressure may undermine impartial decisions.

Should presidents lose all immunity for actions taken in office? Personal liability could deter abuse while allowing opponents to obstruct governing through litigation.

Should a criminal conviction automatically disqualify a candidate? Accountability matters, but voters may distrust prosecutions or distinguish between different offenses.

Should elected officials be forbidden from owning individual stocks? A ban could reduce conflicts while limiting financial choices available to other citizens.

Should politicians face a maximum age limit? Age limits offer a clear rule but can exclude capable people without measuring their judgment.

Should voting be compulsory even for people who reject every candidate? Compulsion might broaden participation while forcing disillusioned citizens into a process they distrust.

Should billionaires be allowed to fund election campaigns? Political participation is a right, but enormous donations can give a few voices unusual influence.