Voting. For most Americans, it’s a straightforward exercise. A quick trip to a local school, library or fire station, casting a ballot and then getting on with the rest of the day.

But we know that many Americans, over the years, had to struggle to exercise what should be a clear-cut right — and that obstacles and threats continue to exist.

Voting rights figured prominently in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, given that rigged systems made it nearly impossible for Black Americans to register to vote in some parts of the country.

Despite their clear differences on key aspects of coronavirus relief, I urge Congress and the White House to find common ground and provide additional aid for the nation’s colleges and universities as soon as possible.

Without question, the pandemic has caused massive disruption in the higher education sector. Pandemic-related expenses already have been enormous and continue to mount. At the same time, our institutions are suffering severe revenue losses.