Voting Systems and the County Unit System

The transcript discusses the political history of Georgia, focusing on Denmark Groover's role in shaping the state's voting systems. It covers the county unit system, its impact on voter suppression, and the transition to a majority vote and runoff system. Groover's changing views on civil rights and his influence on Georgia's political landscape are highlighted. Experts provide insights into the historical context and the ongoing relevance of these voting systems.

What was Denmark Groover's initial political stance?

• Libertarian

• Liberal

• Socialist

• Social Conservative

What was the primary effect of the County Unit System in Georgia?

• It favored white rural voters over black urban voters.

• It was designed to increase voter turnout.

• It equalized voting power across all counties.

• It gave more power to urban voters.

What did the Supreme Court declare about the County Unit System in 1962?

• It was unconstitutional.

• It should be expanded nationwide.

• It was a fair system.

• It needed minor adjustments.

What was Denmark Groover's proposal after the County Unit System was declared unconstitutional?

• To implement majority voting.

• To abolish voting altogether.

• To maintain the status quo.

• To introduce a plurality voting system.

What was the main reason behind the establishment of Georgia's runoff voting system?

• To ensure candidates are elected by a majority.

• To increase voter participation.

• To reduce election costs.

• To simplify the voting process.

How did the County Unit System contribute to voter suppression during the Jim Crow era?

• By increasing voter registration.

• By providing equal voting rights.

• By promoting literacy tests.

• By disenfranchising black voters.

What was one of the key elements of the Jim Crow voter system?

• Proportional representation

• Online voting

• Poll tax

• Universal suffrage

In which states is runoff voting still used today?

• Only in Georgia

• Only in northern states

• In several southern states

• In all 50 states

What is one argument in favor of runoff voting?

• It increases election costs.

• It reduces voter turnout.

• It forces candidates to appeal to a broader audience.

• It simplifies the voting process.

What alternative to runoff voting is suggested in the discussion?

• Plurality voting

• Ranked choice voting

• First-past-the-post

• Single transferable vote