Anjali Enjeti Explores Ballots and Democracy’s Fragility

In a recent episode of the podcast *Fiction/Non/Fiction*, journalist and activist Anjali Enjeti discussed her new book, *Ballot*, which delves into the critical role that ballots play in the democratic process. Co-hosts Whitney Terrell and Jennifer Maritza McCauley, in her debut episode as a co-host, engaged Enjeti in a conversation about her personal experiences with voting, the historical context of ballots in the United States, and the issues she faced while working as a poll worker in Fulton County, Georgia, during the contentious 2020 presidential election.

Enjeti’s book reflects on her childhood memories of ballots, exploring both their literal and metaphorical significance. She shared insights into her experiences with the Dominion voting machines that were installed by Republican officials, which sparked controversy and allegations during the election. Enjeti firmly debunked the unfounded claims of election fraud in Fulton County, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the voting process.

A significant part of the discussion centered on the Trump Administration’s controversial seizure of 700 boxes of ballots from Fulton County. Enjeti articulated the broader implications of this action, questioning whether it might lead to attempts at altering the ballots, an act she perceives as detrimental to democracy.

Reflections on Voting and Accountability

Enjeti and her co-hosts reflected on the emotional weight that voting carries. McCauley reminisced about her own anxiety during her first voting experience, conveying the sense of responsibility that comes with casting a ballot. In response, Enjeti highlighted the importance of this feeling, referencing civil rights leader John Lewis, who often reminded people not to take their voting rights for granted.

“I’m not religious or spiritual, but to me, voting is holy,” Enjeti stated, underscoring the sacred nature of participating in democracy. She expressed admiration for Lewis, noting the need for a more robust Voting Rights Act, a legacy that remains unfulfilled following his passing.

The conversation shifted to the challenges of navigating political allegiance and accountability. Enjeti reflected on her support for various candidates over the years, including her initial enthusiasm for President Bill Clinton in the 1990s, which later turned to disappointment due to his policies. She shared her belief that voters often get caught up in the desire to support winning candidates, which can overshadow their commitment to the issues that truly matter.

Enjeti emphasized that holding elected officials accountable is essential. “Election day is a few days a year, but the process of voting really is every day of the year,” she remarked. She encouraged listeners to engage with their representatives consistently, whether through town halls or grassroots efforts.

Empowerment Through Grassroots Activism

Enjeti’s passion for activism is evident in her dedication to voter outreach. She recounted her experiences canvassing in Georgia, where she successfully helped shift several districts from red to blue. “It is the biggest high to gather with people who come together to try to elect a candidate,” she said, highlighting the exhilaration of grassroots organizing.

Despite setbacks, such as the loss of Stacey Abrams in the 2018 gubernatorial race, Enjeti remains hopeful. She credits the tireless efforts of individuals who strive to make a difference in their communities, noting that even losing candidates provide alternatives for voters.

As Enjeti’s book *Ballot* continues to inspire discussions about voting rights and democracy, her insights serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced in maintaining the integrity of elections. The podcast episode is available through various platforms, including iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify, allowing a wider audience to engage with these critical issues.

For those interested in exploring the complexities of voting and the significance of ballots in democracy, Enjeti’s work promises to shed light on these essential topics.