Ensuring fair and accessible elections is critical to maintaining public trust in democracy. Three reforms stand out as essential: making Election Day (or week) a national holiday, replacing volunteer poll workers with federal oversight, and implementing public-access surveillance at polling stations. These changes would increase voter participation and enhance election security.
1. Make Election Day (or Week) a National Holiday
- Increases voter access: Many people struggle to find time to vote due to work and family obligations.
- Reduces economic disparity: Workers without paid time off would have equal opportunity to vote.
- Fosters civic engagement: A holiday would emphasize the importance of voting, encouraging participation.
2. Volunteers Are Not a Safe Method of Running Polls or Counting Votes
- Volunteers can commit voter fraud: Untrained or biased volunteers may manipulate or tamper with results.
- Increased risk of errors: Mistakes, unconscious biases, or technical mishaps can compromise the election.
3. Federal Agents or National Guard to Oversee Polls
- Neutral and consistent oversight: Federal agents follow standardized rules, reducing the risk of fraud or local bias.
- Enhanced security: Voters would feel safer with trained officials, especially in areas prone to intimidation or violence.
- Strengthened public trust: A transparent, professionally managed process ensures a fairer election.
4. Constant Public-Access Surveillance
- Increases transparency: Publicly available video footage can help deter misconduct and provide evidence if needed.
- Boosts accountability: Those running polls would be more careful, knowing they are being monitored.
- Protects voter confidence: With visible safeguards, voters would trust that the process is free from manipulation.
In summary, making Election Day a holiday, introducing federal oversight, and ensuring public surveillance would make elections more accessible, transparent, and secure. These reforms would help maintain the integrity of the voting process and protect the foundation of democracy.