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Should Congress Overhaul the Infrastructure of the United States?

68.3% yes
31.7% no

The topic of internal improvements and the federal government’s role in managing our nation’s infrastructure has been a perennial issue throughout our history. Over the past several months, Congress has hotly debated the topic of an infrastructure bill, raising questions over what policies will best help the United States.

Those who argue that Congress should overhaul the infrastructure of the United States contend that our current system is inadequate to meet the needs of a modern nation. They argue that our roads are outdated, too many people do not have access to the internet, and that funding is needed to prepare for climate change-related disasters. Additionally, they claim that the power to make this type of overhaul rests with the federal government because it relates to the general welfare of all Americans.

Those who argue that Congress should not overhaul the infrastructure of the United States contend that while our current system may need some changes, it does not justify committing large funds and manpower to change numerous things. They argue that patchwork projects are sufficient to maintaining what is generally an overall sufficient infrastructure. Additionally, they claim that state governments are more adept at undertaking infrastructure projects as they have the constitutional authority to do so and are far more knowledgeable about local issues.

So, what do you think? Should Congress Overhaul the Infrastructure of the United States? Students can answer Yes, it should; No, it should not; or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your answers by November 23rd to be considered for this week’s competition.


Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:

  • Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner
  • Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers
  • Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors
  • They address counter-arguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner
  • They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly

JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 11/15/21 to 11/23/21, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

(For rules/regulations click HERE)


Reading materials


Current Standings

Helen from District Of Columbia voted yes

Congress should overhaul the infrastructure of the United States. The infrastructure in the United States is in need of repair, especially to prepare for the climate disasters that are coming…

Grace from Michigan voted no

No, I don’t think so. I do not believe that it is Congress’s job to take care of the infrastructure of the United States. Personally, I believe that there should…

Marcus from Ohio voted yes

Infrastructure is a broad topic that includes many necessities and services to increase the general welfare. If you imagine a world without infrastructure, you'd probably be thinking of a world…

David from Virginia voted no

No, Congress should not overhaul the infrastructure of the country.  There are two reasons why they should completely overall the infrastructure. The first reason would be the cost of the…

Ella from Virginia voted yes

Yes, I do believe that Congress should overhaul the infrastructure of the United States. Infrastructure is a very broad topic that includes many aspects such as public transportation, energy, and…

Lilly from Virginia voted no

I do not think Congress should overhaul the infrastructure, except for the infrastructure that benefits the country as a whole. Such as our international ports, interstate systems, and international airports.…

will from Virginia voted yes

should congress overhaul the infrastructure bill? the infrastructure bill that was passed earlier this year has allowed for 1.2 trillion dollars for fixing roads, bridges, canals, ports, and other essential…

Zach from Illinois voted no

Although the infrastructure of the US is extremely important and must change with time, the states are better equipped at handling these projects of updating infrastructure. It is difficult for…

Olivia from Virginia voted yes

Congress should overhaul the infrastructure of the United States. Many elements of the country's infrastructure are currently outdated, unsafe, and impractical. The United States Infrastructure is currently reported as a…

Jake from Illinois voted no

The infrastructure of the United States is a hot topic and many people have many different opinions. In my opinion the Congress should not overhaul the infrastructure of the whole…


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