Understanding Mail-In Voting in the US: Procedures, Security, and Benefits

Mail-in voting, also known as voting by mail, has become a crucial and popular method of participating in elections, especially amidst the ongoing pandemic. This article explores the procedures, security concerns, and benefits associated with mail-in voting in the United States.

Mail-In Voting in California

Beginning with the November 3, 2020 General Election, California became one of the many states mandating mail-in ballots for all registered voters. This measure aimed to ensure a safe and accessible voting option during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike in-person voting, there is no opting out of this process. This mandatory mail-in system, however, raises security questions and concerns about the validity and security of the votes.

The risks associated with mail-in voting include:

The ballot could be stolen or filled out by someone else, particularly if they know you don't vote or have little interest in politics. There is insufficient evidence to support rigorous signature checking. The margin of difference in signatures that is acceptable is not well-defined, leading to potential variations in ballot acceptance. Duplicate voting is possible if a ballot is sent to multiple addresses or under different names, granting the voter two opportunities to cast a ballot.

Moreover, there is ease in misusing ballots, especially those for family members who are unavailable or lack enthusiasm for voting. This practice undermines the integrity of the electoral process, a scenario that is virtually unverifiable.

State-specific Procedures: Massachusetts Example

The process of mail-in voting varies significantly from state to state, reflecting the decentralized nature of the US electoral system. In Massachusetts, the Town Clerk maintains a list of all registered voters. Approximately two months before the election, applications for absentee ballots are mailed to these registered voters.

If a voter wishes to receive an absentee ballot, they must announce their preference for the desired ballot when they submit their application. For primary elections, specifying the desired ballot is necessary. Approximately three weeks before the election, the absentee ballot will be mailed to the voter.

The ease of process often leads to insufficient procedures lining up. In the author's personal experience, a mail-in ballot did not arrive as expected. Therefore, the voter had to cast a provisional ballot at the poll on election day, highlighting the importance of timely communication between the voter and the electoral authorities.

Benefits of Mail-In Voting

While the security and validity of mail-in votes remain contentious, there are various advantages to this voting method:

Health and Safety: Voting through the mail helps to minimize the spread of infectious diseases, including the flu and common colds. This is particularly advantageous during the pandemic. Convenience: Mail-in voting offers significant convenience for working individuals. If voters combine the travel to cast their ballot with other errands, it reduces their overall carbon footprint and saves time. Detailed Candidate Research: Voters can take their time to research candidates and fill out ballots with more informed decisions. For example, the author can examine candidates and ballot questions at their leisure, fully considering each office and vote. Self-Determination: Unlike in-person voting, where voters are often influenced by their environment, mail-in voting allows voters to dictate their ballots without external interference.

All in all, while mail-in voting presents certain challenges, its benefits in terms of safety, convenience, and thorough voter engagement make it a valuable tool in democratic processes.