Possible Persuasive Speech Topics:
Adoption laws- Should the process be simpler?
Acupuncture- Is this a viable treatment method?
Bilingual Education- Should students be required to take a foreign language in elementary school?
Civil Rights- Has the civil rights movement improved the lives of Americans?
DNA Testing – Should states allow post conviction DNA testing?
Electoral College- Should the election system be changed?
Identity Theft- Should the punishment for identity theft be stronger?
Income Tax- Should the government release all citizens from income tax for a flat national sales tax?
Death Penalty- Is the death penalty cruel and unusual punishment?
Stem Cell Research- Is stem cell research unnecessary or unethical?
Insanity Defense- Is this a valid defense?
Health Care- Is the health care system beyond repair?
Environmental Issues- What policies are needed to help clean up the environment?
Seatbelt Laws- Should seatbelts be required for all vehicles? (School Bus)
Standardized Testing- Do standardized tests provide an accurate reflection of ability?
Political Issues- Should faith based organizations be allowed to apply for federal funds?
Social Security- How should America address the social security crisis?
Corporal Punishment- Should school personnel be allowed to spank children?
Euthanasia- Is doctor assisted suicide ethical?
School Vouchers- Is this a necessary policy?
No Child Left Behind- Is this program working?
This is not an exhaustive list of all persuasive topics. These are only a few examples. Use this as a beginning point as you prepare for the persuasive speech.