Unlocking Mail-In Voting: Are Security Risks Looming or Manageable?

Row of USPS mail trucks parked in lot.

Mail-in voting security concerns escalate as a Hillsdale College vice president receives a misaddressed ballot, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the system.

At a Glance

  • Mail-in voting has increased, with nearly 25% of U.S. votes cast by mail in 2016
  • Concerns about fraud persist despite anti-fraud measures in place
  • A misdirected ballot case involving Hillsdale College’s VP raises questions
  • 34 states and D.C. allow absentee ballots, with 11 states easing restrictions due to COVID-19
  • Voters can track mail ballot status online in at least 46 states

The Rise of Mail-In Voting and Its Challenges

Mail-in voting, a long-standing practice in American elections, has seen a significant uptick in recent years. In 2016, nearly a quarter of all U.S. votes were cast by mail, a trend that has only accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While proponents argue that mail-in voting increases convenience and reduces health risks, critics raise concerns about the potential for fraud and errors in the system.

The debate over mail-in voting security has intensified following incidents such as the case involving Hillsdale College’s Vice President, Robert Norton. Norton received a mail ballot from Washington, D.C., addressed to a non-resident at his Michigan home, raising questions about the integrity of absentee ballot processes.

“I opened the mail, realized what that was, and thought, ‘what the heck?’ and then I looked at the label” – Robert Norton

This incident echoes broader issues noted in states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, fueling debates over the need for improved security measures and transparency mechanisms to maintain public trust in the electoral system.

Understanding Mail-In Voting Systems

There are two primary types of mail balloting: universal vote by mail and absentee balloting. Currently, 34 states and the District of Columbia allow absentee ballots, with 11 states easing absentee voting restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The process typically involves requesting a ballot, receiving it, and returning it securely.

“Mail ballots submitted by voters who meet eligibility and validity requirements are counted in every election.” – Source

Election officials use various methods to verify the validity of mail ballots, including signature verification, identification numbers, and postmark or receipt dates. Systems are in place to track ballots, update voter registration lists, and prevent double voting. In at least 46 states, voters can track their mail ballot status online, providing an additional layer of transparency.

Addressing Security Concerns

Despite the safeguards in place, concerns about the security of mail-in voting persist. The 2005 bipartisan Commission on Federal Election Reform expressed worries about absentee ballots increasing fraud risks. However, according to the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University, there is no evidence that mail balloting significantly increases electoral fraud.

“According to the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University, there is no evidence that mail balloting increases electoral fraud as there are several anti-fraud protections built into the process designed to make it difficult to impersonate voters or steal ballots.” – Darrell M. West

To address potential issues, 30 states offer a “curing” process, allowing voters to correct problems with their ballot envelopes. Additionally, many states have implemented secure drop boxes for returning mail ballots, often under video surveillance. These measures aim to balance the convenience of mail-in voting with the need for electoral integrity.

The Path Forward

As the debate over mail-in voting security continues, it’s clear that ongoing evaluation and reform of the system are necessary. While mail-in voting offers increased accessibility and has been used successfully for decades, including by military personnel, incidents like the misdirected ballot case highlight the need for constant vigilance and improvement.

Election officials, policymakers, and voters alike must work together to ensure the security and reliability of mail-in voting systems. This may involve implementing stricter verification processes, improving voter education, and leveraging technology to enhance tracking and transparency. By addressing these concerns head-on, we can strive to maintain the integrity of our electoral process while preserving the convenience and accessibility that mail-in voting provides.

Sources:

  1. How does vote-by-mail work and does it increase election fraud?
  2. Mail Voting is Safe and Secure
  3. College VP receives DC mail ballot at his Michigan residence for a voter who doesn’t live there