Ep 25. Whose Vote Counts

In Frontline season 39 episode 25 titled Whose Vote Counts, the team investigates the issues surrounding voting rights and voter suppression in the United States. The episode delves into the history of voting rights, from the ratification of the Constitution to the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and how legislation has shaped the way Americans exercise their right to vote.

The segment looks into the 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder, which effectively struck down a crucial provision of the Voting Rights Act, leading to widespread changes in voting laws in multiple states. These changes include voter ID laws, purging of voter rolls, and reductions in early voting hours, among others. The show interviews experts who argue that these laws are often aimed at preventing minority groups from voting.

The documentary also examines the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on voting in the 2020 presidential election. Frontline looks into the challenges of voting during a pandemic, including changes in voting procedures, concerns about voter safety, and the impact on voter turnout, particularly in marginalized communities.

Whose Vote Counts also explores other issues surrounding voting, including the role of money in politics and the possibility of foreign interference in American elections. The show features interviews with Election officials, voting rights advocates, and legal scholars, providing insights into what is at stake for the future of democracy in the United States.

Overall, Frontline's Whose Vote Counts provides a comprehensive overview of voting rights and voter suppression issues and how they impact American democracy. Through a combination of in-depth interviews and expert analysis, the episode sheds light on the complex challenges facing voters and policymakers alike.