US Postal Voting and Voter Fraud: Debunking Myths

The question of whether postal voting can lead to voter fraud is a common concern in political discussions. In this article, we will tackle the misconception that postal voting inherently leads to such misconduct, drawing on historical and global evidence to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Why Not Mail Voting?

The argument against postal voting often revolves around a perceived increase in voter fraud. However, the data and experiences from various states and countries suggest that these concerns are largely unfounded. For instance, five states in the US have been conducting all election by mail since 1998, and there have been no reports of more voter fraud than in other states. This suggests that the format of voting does not inherently lead to an increase in fraudulent activities.

States Implementing Mail Voting

Currently, 23 states in the US allow some form or another of mail-in voting. Evidence from these states indicates that there is no significant increase in voter fraud. Critics often raise concerns about the need for a national ID and automatic voter registration, but these measures would be beneficial across all voting systems. The reluctance of a certain U.S. political party to adopt these measures raises questions about their genuine concern for election security.

Experience from the Netherlands

As a permanent resident of the Netherlands, I have firsthand experience with the ease and security of the electoral process. Local elections in the Netherlands allow non-citizens to vote without the need for registration, and voting is a streamlined process. The contrast with the US in 2020 highlights the stark differences in election administration. Polling places in some states faced long lines and potential voter intimidation, while in the Netherlands, the process was quick, secure, and accessible.

Potential for Fraud in Voting Methods

The easiest ways to commit fraudulent voting are through mail-in ballots and voting machines. Historical and ongoing instances of mail-in ballot fraud, such as sending ballots for deceased individuals, illustrate that such activities are rare and often detected quickly. For example, in the 2020 election, a man was found to have used his deceased mother’s ballot, which is clearly fraudulent.

Election Security and Misconceptions

The argument that mail-in voting encourages fraud is a misconception. The voting process, including both mail and in-person voting, is designed to be secure. Any rare attempts at fraud would be quickly identified and addressed. The focus should be on improving the overall security and accessibility of the electoral process, rather than limiting voters' choice to vote.

Conclusion

There is a wealth of evidence showing that postal voting does not lead to increased voter fraud. Historical examples and international comparisons provide a robust foundation for this assertion. The concerns about postal voting being a breeding ground for fraud are not supported by the data. Instead, the focus should be on enhancing overall election security and accessibility, which would benefit all voters.