Many Americans are performing their civic duty, but they’re doing so in congressional races that are almost already decided. More than 90% of congressional seats are effectively settled in primary elections. Fewer than 20 House seats nationwide are true toss-ups, meaning a relatively small number of voters control the balance of power. We break down what’s wrong with this system, how we got here and why it still doesn’t mean you should stay home on Election Day.

Nearly two decades after the hazing death of 19-year-old Harrison Kowiak at Lenoir-Rhyne University, North Carolina has enacted Harrison’s Law, expanding the definition of hazing and increasing criminal penalties. We examine what the new law changes, the federal landscape for hazing and whether stronger statutes can truly shift campus culture.