Concerns about election integrity persist following the 2020 election, strategies to combat cheating in the 2024 election are being revealed. Despite widespread acknowledgment of the issue, legislative actions to address it have been limited, particularly in states like Arizona, where significant election integrity bills face potential vetoes despite contested results.
While some states, such as Georgia under Governor Brian Kemp, have made progress in passing election integrity legislation, there is a concerning trend of laws making it easier to cheat rather than tightening election laws overall.
Organizations like the Brennan Center have highlighted this trend, noting that expansive laws outnumbered restrictive ones in 2023, raising alarms about the integrity of the electoral process.
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To combat cheating, election integrity advocates are turning to grassroots efforts, particularly emphasizing the deployment of poll observers in large numbers. These observers act as watchdogs at polling stations, ensuring correct procedures and addressing any irregularities promptly.
The success of this approach was evident in Virginia’s 2021 election, where GOP observers played a critical role in safeguarding the vote’s integrity.
Maximizing the effectiveness of poll-watching efforts involves engaging with election officials early, understanding observation parameters, and being prepared for potential obstacles.
Legal recourse may be necessary if officials obstruct observation efforts, with organizations like the Republican National Committee and America First Legal offering support for such actions.
Observers also monitor ballot drop boxes closely, given concerns about technical violations undermining the integrity of these procedures. Avoiding voter interactions to prevent accusations of harassment is crucial in this context.
Technological advancements, such as live streaming from polling locations, offer remote observation opportunities, enhancing transparency and accountability.
Organizations like the We the People AZ Alliance in Arizona have leveraged live streaming to bolster monitoring efforts, showcasing the importance of technological innovation in safeguarding election integrity.
As the battle against election cheating intensifies, mobilizing grassroots observers, engaging with officials, and leveraging technology are crucial strategies to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure voters’ voices are heard and respected.
