Wisconsin’s Vote-By-Mail Bill Addresses a Persistent Issue
The Importance of In-Person Voting
The gold standard in voting is to vote in person on Election Day while showing a government-issued photo ID to prove eligibility.
However, there are some states that conduct elections entirely through the mail, including California, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Vermont (general elections only), and Washington. Additionally, 27 states and Washington, D.C. offer “no-excuse” absentee voting.
The Partisan Divide Over Mail-In Voting
In the lead-up to the 2020 election, there was a growing partisan divide over mail-in balloting. Democrats, unions, and left-wing organizations pushed for mail-in voting, while Republicans preferred to vote in person. This divide was reflected in polling numbers, with 79% of Republicans intending to vote in person and 51% of Democrats preferring to vote by mail.
Concerns About Ballot Harvesting and Voter Coercion
Voting by mail opens the door to potential issues such as ballot trafficking and voter coercion. Partisan ballot traffickers can pressure voters into giving up their ballots or manipulate them at home before submitting them. In some states, laws have been passed to allow the payment of individuals to collect mail-in ballots, raising concerns about the integrity of the process.
Challenges with Mail-In Ballot Processing
Another challenge with mail-in voting is the processing of ballots. Many swing states prohibit the processing of mail-in ballots before Election Day, leading to delays in counting and potential discrepancies in results. This was evident in the 2020 election, where the outcome in Wisconsin was not known until the next morning due to the large number of absentee ballots.
Wisconsin’s Response and Proposed Reforms
Wisconsin is taking steps to address the issues caused by delayed processing of mail-in ballots. Senate Bill 685 aims to streamline the absentee ballot process by allowing for early processing on the Monday before Election Day. This change would reduce the backlog of uncounted ballots and enhance transparency. The bill also includes provisions to decentralize counting locations, enhance election night reporting, and strengthen safeguards against voter fraud.
Ensuring Security and Integrity
While the proposed reforms aim to expedite the vote-counting process, it is crucial to maintain the security and integrity of the vote. Robust safeguards must be implemented to prevent fraud and ensure the confidentiality of ballots. Transparency is also essential in building public trust, which is why the bill includes provisions for frequent updates on processed ballots and securing election materials.
Setting a Precedent for Election Integrity
By passing Senate Bill 685, Wisconsin can set a precedent for other states facing similar challenges. The lessons learned from the 2020 election can guide improvements in the electoral system, ultimately enhancing public faith in the election process. As Wisconsin prepares for the 2024 presidential election cycle, it is crucial to address these issues and ensure a resilient and responsive electoral system.
What challenges do elderly and disabled individuals face when voting by mail?
Allenges for the Elderly and Disabled
While voting by mail has been touted as a convenient option for those who have difficulty physically going to a polling place, it often presents challenges for the elderly and disabled. Many may struggle to understand the instructions on the ballot, properly complete it, and return it on time. In-person voting allows for assistance from poll workers and ensures that individuals overcome any barriers they may face. In-person voting with a government-issued photo ID offers the highest level of security and minimizes the risk of voter fraud. Individuals must prove their eligibility and identity before casting their vote, ensuring that only eligible voters participate in the election. It prevents issues like individuals voting multiple times or using false identities. Furthermore, in-person voting allows for the immediate resolution of any issues or questions that may arise. Election officials are readily available to address concerns and verify voter information, ensuring accuracy and integrity in the process. In-person voting promotes democratic participation by creating a shared experience and sense of community. It allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and exercise their civic duty, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility. Additionally, in-person voting provides an opportunity for meaningful interactions between voters and candidates or their representatives, encouraging political engagement and informed decision-making. While mail-in voting may offer convenience, it comes with potential risks and challenges that can undermine the integrity of elections. In-person voting with a government-issued photo ID ensures a secure, accurate, and transparent election process. It addresses concerns about voter coercion, ballot manipulation, and fraud, while also promoting democratic participation and fostering a sense of community. Therefore, it is crucial to uphold the importance of in-person voting as the gold standard in elections.Ensuring a Secure and Accurate Election
Promoting Democratic Participation
Conclusion
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