In a recent development that raises eyebrows, Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes has introduced a new voting system for citizens overseas under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). While improving access for military and overseas voters seems like a positive step, the potential risks involved merit careful examination.
The Enhanced Ballot system aims to streamline the voting process for UOCAVA voters, allowing them to cast their ballots from personal devices, including cell phones. The goal is to ensure anonymity and equality between overseas voters and those voting within the state. However, the push for convenience could overshadow serious security concerns that have surfaced in recent elections.
Historically, UOCAVA voters faced the unsettling reality of waiving their right to a secret ballot due to processing issues. Enhanced Ballot promises to change that by eliminating duplication and reducing overvotes. Yet, one must question the safety of a system that allows ballots to be marked and submitted through personal devices. Given that previous reports have shown vulnerabilities in online voting systems, including hacking incidents involving hostile actors, the stakes are incredibly high.
An alarming aspect of this new system also links back to Enhanced Voting’s connections with the Center for Internet Security, which has faced scrutiny for its role in censoring dissenting views during the last presidential election. The reputation of the individuals behind Enhanced Voting raises further concerns. How can citizens feel confident that their votes are secure when individuals involved have histories intertwined with controversial practices?
Security certifications like SOC 2 Type II and Rabet-V are touted by the Secretary of State to reassure voters. However, certifications alone cannot guarantee that bad actors won’t exploit weaknesses in the system. When vulnerabilities have been exposed in the past, allowing overseas ballots to be cast online may open a Pandora’s box for manipulation.
The integrity of elections remains a bedrock principle for our democracy. While it’s important to adapt to changing times and technology, any move towards online voting must be met with complete transparency and robust security measures. Hard-working Americans deserve to feel their voices are protected and that their votes are counted accurately.
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