Few issues in American criminal justice provoke as much debate as incarceration. The United States already has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world, yet concerns about violent crime and public safety remain central to national politics. Some argue that overcrowded prisons and constrained sentencing have weakened deterrence and limited the ability of courts to incapacitate dangerous offenders. Others contend that expanding prison capacity would deepen mass incarceration without addressing the root causes of crime. As policymakers grapple with rising public concern about safety in many communities, the question has become increasingly urgent.
This live stream will be hosted on YV's YouTube channel and X feed.
The Resolution: The United States needs more prisons in order to tackle crime.
Proposition: Charles Fain Lehman, Fellow at the Manhattan Institute
Opposition: Sarah Anderson, Resident Fellow at the R Street Institute
Date & Time:
Monday, March 23, 2026
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (EST)
Meet the Debaters:
Charles Fain Lehman – Proposition
Charles Fain Lehman is a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a contributing editor at City Journal. His research focuses on criminal justice policy, policing, and the effectiveness of public institutions in maintaining public safety. His writing has appeared in outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and National Review.
Sarah Anderson – Opposition
Sarah Anderson is a resident fellow in criminal justice policy at the R Street Institute. Her research focuses on corrections policy, sentencing reform, and policies aimed at reducing incarceration while improving public safety outcomes. She works on issues related to prison conditions, reentry policy, and evidence-based criminal justice reform.
About Young Voices Debates
Young Voices hosts monthly Oxford-style debates that bring top thought leaders together with our rising talent. Held in person in New York City and streamed online, these debates provide a rigorous exchange of ideas on the most pressing issues of our time.
This debate will be streamed live on YouTube. Registrants will receive the viewing links via Luma.
The Oxford-style debate will be moderated by Hekmat Matthew Aboukhater, Director of Young Voices Debates.
Join us here on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/cwj_77GByUw?feature=share
Join us here on X: https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1yKAPMXpWYMxb
