Stealing Democracy: The New Politics of Voter Suppression

by Spencer Overton

"A must-read for anyone who is concerned about our deeply flawed electoral system."―Congressman John Conyers, Jr. Politicians spew shallow words describing a self-governing American people, who select their representatives. In reality, politicians maintain power by selecting voters. Elected officials and bureaucrats control thousands of election practices―from district boundaries to English-only ballots―that determine political winners and losers. Through real-life stories, Spencer Overton shows how these practices determine policies on issues that shape our lives, and he provides strategies for restoring government by the people. Overton's compelling case is vital to the future of our democracy. With a new afterword.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2006

Reviews

[SC · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was quite an eye-opener for me. Of all the books written about the insanity that is our electoral process (50 caucuses and conventions come to mind) I never realized what a threat gerrymandering, or redistricting, as it is euphemistically known, poses to our democracy.

For example, in California, there are only one or two House races that are actually competitive (i.e. the winner will not win with a margin higher than 10%). This is because almost all the districts are drawn up in bipartisan backroom deals using sophisticated mapping technology and voter registration records to dilute and inflate the influence of voter groups, thus effectively ensuring the outcome. If you are not familiar with this sort of practice (and this is only a tidbit of what is covered in this book) I highly recommend reading the entire thing. It will make you angry. And it will make you rethink our winner-take-all system of elections.

[Moira Downey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seemed timely. Particularly given the unprecedented number of reported incidents of voter intimidation happening in North Carolina. In 2012. It's well written (despite an unfortunate and extended analogy to the movie The Matrix) and informative, though I would love to see a new edition with updated statistics (but I'd wager to guess the trends indicated herein only continue their trajectory to today). The thing I enjoyed most was that Overton not just highlights some of the problems inherent in our current electoral system, but also tries to present positive policy prescriptions to address said issues.

[Justin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really great book, really great research. I loved how he supported all of his arguments with both facts, and with personal stories from real life people. Also, the conclusion was really great, again he made it tangible by including narrative. At times the syntax was tedious, but nothing that would overshadow the content.

[Alex Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

And though I cannot yet vote this book made voting rights my cause. What could be more of a bipartisan issue? What could be less known by the voter? Who pays attention in a non-presidential election year? Now, I do.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Should be required reading.

[Pilar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Describes a mix of partisan tactics. Was hoping for more voter or precinct-level reporting.