The political math behind the numbers - let our experts explain why a census is suddenly a hot topic
July 9, 20191 min readUsually, there’s nothing particularly interesting, let alone controversial, about a census. It’s an objective collection of data that allows the government and other organizations to use pure evidence to determine things like population growth and shift, income rates and education participation rates. For those who rely on metrics, it means a lot. For everyone else — it’s a form we fill out once a decade.
However, these are not normal times.
There's an ongoing debate among politicians and the courts regarding the request to add a question about citizenship to the 2020 census.
Here’s the question:
- So, is it right to inquire about citizenship in a census?
- What are the benefits?
- What are the concerns
- And why is this such a big deal?
That’s where our experts can help.
Dr. Martha Ginn, professor of political science at Augusta University, is an expert on the judicial process, constitutional law and the U.S. Supreme Court. Dr. William Hatcher, associate professor of political science and director of the Master of Public Administration program at Augusta University, focuses on public administration and social, economic and political institutions in local communities. Both are available to speak with media regarding the census issue. To arrange an interview, click on either expert’s icon.
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Martha Ginn, PhD Professor
Dr. Martha Ginn is a political expert on the judicial process, constitutional law and the U.S. Supreme Court.
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William Hatcher, PhD, MPA Chair of the Department of Social Sciences
Dr. William Hatcher focuses on public administration and social, economic and political institutions in local communities.