The use of mail-in ballots has seen a dramatic increase in recent elections, due to the coronavirus pandemic. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and challenges associated with mail-in ballots, and explore potential solutions that can help improve their accuracy and reliability.
Mail-in ballots offer a number of benefits that make voting easier and more convenient for citizens. For one, mail-in ballots are much simpler to fill out than traditional in-person voting. They also allow people who can’t make it to the polling station on Election Day to still cast their vote, meaning that more citizens can be engaged in the democratic process. In addition, mail-in ballots are cost-effective and can save money for governments compared to traditional voting methods. Furthermore, the ability to vote remotely gives those with limited mobility the opportunity to exercise their right to vote without facing barriers. Lastly, mailing-in a ballot allows citizens to take the time to research and make educated decisions when casting their votes, rather than feeling pressured to make a quick decision while in the voting booth.
Mail-in ballots have become increasingly controversial as they have become more common. There are several challenges associated with mail-in ballots that have been noted. One of the main concerns is security. Questions surrounding the integrity of mail-in ballots have been raised due to issues such as voter fraud and tampering. It is much easier for fraud to occur with a paper ballot versus an electronic one, as the paper can be altered in multiple ways. This is especially true for ballots sent through the mail, as these ballots may not arrive at their destination secure or sealed.
Another challenge associated with mail-in ballots is voter confusion. Many voters struggle to understand how to fill out a paper ballot, and incorrect marking of ballots may result in the ballot being rejected. Additionally, many voters struggle to understand how to properly send in a mail-in ballot and make mistakes which result in the ballot not being counted due to it not arriving on time. Finally, increased costs associated with mailing and verifying mail-in ballots can create financial strain on municipalities and counties that utilize them.
Overall, there are a number of different challenges associated with mail-in ballots that must be addressed in order to ensure that they are accurate and secure. Without proper safeguards in place, the trust placed in these ballots could be eroded and lead to questions about the legitimacy of the elections that use them.
The potential solutions to improve mail-in ballots start with understanding the underlying challenges. To address issues of security and integrity, one potential solution could be to work with existing technology and adapting it to election administrations. This might include incorporating biometric data and using digital identity documents to authenticate voters. Additionally, using encrypted and secure communication between voters, election offices, and partner agencies can help mitigate any risk and reduce opportunities for fraud.
In addition, utilizing end-to-end verifiable systems could ensure that ballots are cast as intended and properly recorded. This system enables each voter to check that their ballot was accurately captured and accurately counted. Such a system would require an integration of multiple technological tools and protocols.
Finally, providing voter education and guidance on safe procedures for filling out and returning a mail-in ballot will help improve the success rate of these ballots. Access to accurate, up-to-date information can lead to increased voter participation and confidence in election results. Allowing voters to track their ballots in a secure, online system is another way to encourage trust and engagement. By providing clarity and transparency into the process of casting and counting mail-in ballots, citizens can be confident that their vote is counted and their voice is heard.