Discussion-activity: Valuable vote

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1. Why is Maryland voter Bryan Ward selling his ballot? Is he serious about the sale? What was the starting and ending bid, according to the CNNfyi article "Vote for sale?"? In his eBay description, whom does Ward accuse of regularly selling votes? What are the consequences of selling votes in Maryland? What is the penalty for vote buyers? Is it legal to buy or sell votes in other states? Why do you think this is the case?

2. What is Ward protesting? Why do you think he chose this medium? Ward said, "I expect eBay to cancel it some time. I ended up doing it as a statement against the extreme influence of corporate financing in politics." What does Ward mean by "corporate financing in politics"? Can you give examples of corporations contributing to politicians or politically connected organizations? Do you agree or disagree with this action? Explain your position.

3. What would happen if the practice of selling and purchasing votes were legal? What benefits or risks do you suppose would occur? Would you sell your vote if you could? Why or why not? If yes, for how much would you price your vote?

Activity

Have students use a media center or online resources to research the U.S. Constitution's Bill of Rights. Ask: Is there a constitutional right that you would sell for a fee? Direct students to describe a constitutional right as if it were the focus of an advertisement for print or electronic media. Have students share their "ads" with the class, explaining why the rights they chose are not important or less important to them. Use this exercise as a springboard into a discussion about the value of democratic rights and freedom.