Today, Explained 2020 makes no census
Aug 13, 2020
Hansi Lo Wang, NPR reporter covering the 2020 census, sheds light on the chaotic challenges faced during this pivotal count amid COVID-19 and political pressure. He discusses the hurdles in reaching underrepresented communities and the implications of proposed changes to the counting process. Wang emphasizes the stakes involved, including federal funding and representation, and unpacks how misinformation and political influence hindered a fair count. The crucial role of accurate data in democracy is highlighted throughout their engaging conversation.
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2020 Census Challenges
- The 2020 census faces unprecedented challenges, including the pandemic and political interference.
- These issues complicate counting historically undercounted groups, leading to mistrust and wariness.
Pandemic's Impact on Census
- The pandemic has severely disrupted the 2020 census, causing delays and difficulties in door-knocking efforts.
- Reaching historically undercounted communities, who often require in-person interaction, becomes even harder amidst a pandemic.
Trump's Memo and Constitutional Concerns
- President Trump's memo aims to exclude unauthorized immigrants from the apportionment count, a move never done before.
- This raises constitutional concerns, as the Constitution calls for counting all persons, regardless of immigration status.