pandemic – n. a disease spreading over a whole country or the world
accustomed – adj. familiar with something so that it seems normal or usual
chaos – n. complete disorder; unrest
rig – v. to control or affect something in a dishonest way to get a desired result
polarize – v. to cause (people or opinions) to separate into opposing groups
academic – n. a teacher at a college or university
alternative – n. a possibility
primary – n. an election to appoint delegates to a part conference to choose the candidate for a general election
absentee – n. someone who is expected to be present at an event, but is not
stamp – v. to leave a mark on something