Final answer:
The basis of any democracy is free and fair elections, which are essential for citizens to elect representatives that align with their interests. Despite its importance, the U.S. faces challenges with low voter turnout, attributed to factors like voter apathy and complex registration requirements. Efforts to increase political participation are ongoing to strengthen democratic engagement. Option number d is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basis of any democracy is D.) free and fair elections. This fundamental concept is exemplified by the United States' democratic system, which relies on the notion that citizens can freely and willingly elect representatives they believe will look out for their best interests.
The right to vote, while granted, has historically seen limited participation from the American populace, with minority groups often underrepresented in past elections. However, recent trends indicate a rise in voter turnout among various minority races and ethnicities.
To ensure that democracy benefits from meaningful voting, citizens must be provided with clearly differentiated options at the polls, ensuring the ability to select a candidate that aligns with their own preferences. Moreover, instances like the Reynolds v. Sims case have highlighted the need for government intervention to uphold a fair voting process through the 'one person, one vote' principle. Despite the significance of a robust voter turnout for the vitality of democracy, factors such as voter apathy, the non-establishment of Election Day as a holiday, and complex registration requirements contribute to America's lower voter turnout in comparison to other nations.
Efforts by groups such as Vote.org and individuals like Stacey Abrams aim to combat the dips in turnout and espouse the value of political participation. Ultimately, the health of a democratic society is reflected in its citizens' willingness to engage in the electoral process, especially when empowered by initiatives that make registering and voting more accessible.