Suds with a Scholar – “The State of Local Democracy in Latah County”

The Latah County Historical Society invites you to Suds with a Scholar on Thursday, September 4^th at Shattuck West in Moscow. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., Dr. Markie McBrayer will present “The State of Local Democracy in Latah County.” While state and national politics often dominate the headlines, this talk invites attendees to reflect on the health of democracy closer to home in Moscow and Latah County. Beginning with the vital role of voter turnout, the discussion explores how local electoral institutions shape the ease—or difficulty—of participating in democracy here. Topics include election frequency and timing, the role of nonpartisan elections, the accessibility of voting sites, and the availability of local news, all with an eye toward understanding how open and inclusive local democracy truly is for the community.

Dr. Markie McBrayer is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Idaho where she teaches American politics, public policy, and statistics. Her research focuses on local and state politics and policy, particularly social policy, housing, and gentrification in the United States. Her work has appeared in Political Research Quality, Urban Affairs Review, and Policy Studies Journal.

This event is open to all, and drinks and food will be available for purchase. The Shattuck West taproom is located at 630 N Almon St, Suite 130, in Moscow.

This presentation is held in conjunction with the Smithsonian traveling exhibit, “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America,” on display at the University of Idaho Library until October 3^rd. “Voices and Votes” is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils nationwide. It’s tenure at the University of Idaho is made possible by the Idaho Humanities Council and is based on a larger exhibition by the National Museum of American History. Support for Museum on Main Street has been provided by the United States Congress.