Civics | Penn Today

‘You Voted. But Did it Really Matter?’

On Nov. 7, Pennsylvania’s electoral votes secured Joseph Biden the presidency. Anticipating news of a Biden win, Mary Frances Berry, Geraldine R. Segal Professor of American Social Thought and professor of history and Africana studies, called it a time to push forward for change with renewed force.

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After a contentious and highly polarized election, what comes next?

Constitutional scholar Rogers Smith shared his thoughts on how the election has gone so far, what might come next, and the challenges of addressing political polarization in America both now and in the future.

Shape of the map of the U.S. comprised of small question marks.

Law expert Kermit Roosevelt on the Electoral College and why America uses it

As Americans await final vote tallies, who declares victory comes down to how many electoral votes each candidate receives. Roosevelt explains the Electoral College, and discusses Trump’s claim that he might take the election to the Supreme Court before all votes are counted.

plane pulling sign that reads "Vote Today!"

Election Day 2020 at Penn

In a year beset by challenges, Penn is still showing up to vote.

Two handmade signs in a window that read VOTE NOVEMBER 3 and PLAN YOUR VOTE.

Talking to your kids about the election

Penn GSE’s Caroline Watts offers advice on how to realistically support children during uncertainty. “Don't try to pretend there isn’t uncertainty in the country,” she says. “Be reassuring. No matter what is happening in the outside world, you will take care of the family.”

Computer screen showing three people on a Zoom call

Alexander Vindman on past events, future concerns

The visiting scholar spoke at a virtual event at Perry World House on the first anniversary of his testimony before the presidential impeachment inquiry.

Person seated at a table with laptop wearing a face mask is taking an ID from a person standing before them, a polling place with a VOTE sign and American Flag pictures on the wall.

Law students at the forefront of election protection efforts in Pennsylvania

As a long and contentious campaign season enters its final days, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School students are volunteering their time and skills to ensure the integrity of the 2020 presidential election.

Students meet virtually on BlueJeans with Pritchett and Gutmann

Down to the wire with Penn Leads the Vote

The student organization’s leaders reflect on a whirlwind of a semester and provide helpful tips for voters on Election Day.

Medical worker in a cap and face mask holding up a sign that reads I Vote Because It Matters.

Penn Medicine votes, and so should you: How to vote safely in 2020

The Penn Medicine Votes initiative, and Penn Medicine’s partnership with VotER helps staff and patients navigate a safe way to vote either before or on Election Day.

Large crowd wearing masks protesting in the streets of D.C., person in foreground holds a sign reading BREONNA’S LIFE MATTERED.

Protests matter, and here’s why

As part of the Provost’s Lecture on Diversity, political science professor Daniel Gillion gave insight into how demonstrations affect elected officials, shape policy, increase engagement, and motivate voter turnout.

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