Commentary

In the wake of the last election, where we saw long lines, voting machine shortages, voter registration failures, overwhelmed poll workers, and voters turned away, it is clearer than ever that we need to upgrade our elections to ensure our democracy remains free, fair and accessible.

As this fifth State of the Union approaches, we feel we know our president. Most of the time, he is, in fact, “No Drama Obama.” Tuesday night, let’s hope he sheds that reserve, and gives us some unexpected drama.

The Voter Empowerment Act, particularly voter registration modernization, would address serious inherent issues within our system that were highlighted in 2012.

President Barack Obama emphasized the need to modernize the U.S. election system in his Inaugural Address. One bill to do just that is set to be introduced Wednesday by the civil rights hero Representative John Lewis (D-Ga.) — who knows a thing or two about how to expand democracy.