[CJ Nicholson]

Today I looked at Todd Gilbert’s page on the Virginia onAir hub, as he is the VA house delegate in Richmond for my district. I previously knew very little about him. I met him once when I was younger, and I had a class with his mother in high school, but beyond that I knew very little. Reading about his past, his experience, and who he is was interesting, despite the fact that I disagree with a large number of his views. It gave me better insight into who was representing me and how my county and district was voting. Reading the page certainly gave me a better perspective into some of the local/state politics of my home county.

[CJ Nicholson]

Earlier this week I went to Jennifer Victor’s presentation on Elections and Voting in America hosted virtually at the George Mason Regional Library. I found, like Jim, Professor Victor’s presentation to be rather comprehensive. Professor Victor began the presentation with multiple theories relating to Democracy, and transitioned to topical issues facing democracy and election systems in the US. She incorporated a look at factors that are causing shifts related to polarization and some possible democratic backsliding that is occurring in the States. We ended with a look at VA’s current elections, and questions on how to stay positive in the face of warning bells of doom and gloom for US Democracy (one of mine), as well as ways to help protect Democracy against autocratic and populist trends. Ultimately, the lecture was incredibly insightful and I appreciate the time Professor Victor gave to share the information, viewpoints, and knowledge that she had.

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