Assignment:
Select ONE of the following topics to answer for Writing Assignment 2. The writing assignment should be a minimum of 750 words. You should find most of the information you need to complete the assignment in the textbook, but it may improve your submission by using additional sources (such as news articles or government websites). See the Writing Assignment Instructions for more information.
How are state judges selected in Texas? Discuss two different methods used in other states for selecting judges. What are the arguments for each of the selection methods you discussed? Do you think that judges should be elected or appointed? Explain your reasoning. How informed do you think the public is about judicial elections and judicial candidates? If you were voting for a judge, would you research the candidates and their qualifications or would you vote based on party affiliation?
How has Texas ranked over the last 10 years in the percent of people without health insurance when compared to other states? (Refer to Census Bureau data.) Has the percentage of people without health insurance been increasing or decreasing? What are some of the explanations for the differences between the current uninsured rate in Texas and the rate in other states? Do you think this issue should be a priority for Texas legislators? Why or why not? Was this issue addressed in the most recent legislative session and if so, what was the outcome? (Note: The Texas Tribune is a good resource for information on public policy issues in Texas).