If a law gives the same punishment to peaceful criticism and violence, what is the problem?

Correct answer: Wrong equivalence between expression and crime

The direct answer is C: the law makes a wrong equivalence between expression and crime. Peaceful criticism is a form of expression and can help citizens question government. Violence harms people or property and may properly be punished. Step by step: first identify the conduct; peaceful words and violent acts are different; next consider the harm; violence usually creates a direct danger, while peaceful criticism does not by itself do so; therefore a fair law should distinguish them and impose proportionate restrictions. Option A is wrong because the issue is not a voting machine. Option B is wrong because election expense is unrelated. Option C is correct because treating peaceful criticism exactly like violence can suppress legitimate speech and turn law into repression. Option D is wrong because a voter list concerns eligibility and registration. Memory cue: peaceful speech may be restricted only for a lawful, genuine reason, not simply because it criticises power.