In a recent development, Pinal County Recorder Dana Lewis has released a video detailing the process by which voting is secured in the county. This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to increase transparency and bolster public confidence in the election system.
However, the public’s concerns about election integrity remain. Before the primaries, according to AZCentral, the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) had sent a letter to Arizona election officials, proposing a plan to monitor ballot drop boxes during the 2024 election. The letter, addressed to state officials including Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and Attorney General Kris Mayes, expressed CPAC’s intention to “reduce voter concerns regarding election fraud and the fair and transparent administration of elections.”
This proposal followed a deployment of poll monitors during the primary elections. Scores of volunteers were stationed at polling locations across the state. Some critics have expressed concerns about potential voter intimidation.
The ongoing discussions about election monitoring have reignited concerns about suspicious activity around voting. These concerns include potential fraud at ballot drop boxes, the possibility of ineligible individuals voting, and suspicions of illegal ballot-harvesting operations.
Ballot harvesting, also known as ballot collecting, refers to the practice of gathering and submitting completed absentee or mail-in voter ballots by third-party individuals, volunteers, or organizations, rather than the voters themselves. This practice is legal in some states but restricted or illegal in others, including Arizona according to H.B. 2023. This bill criminalizes ballot harvesting in Arizona making it a felony. There are some exceptions, however, under certain circumstances for people such as family members, caregivers, and election officials.
It’s worth noting that a previous investigation, initiated by Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh, into alleged voting irregularities was found to be baseless by independent investigators. The investigation, which costed taxpayers a substantial sum, serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying claims before drawing conclusions about election integrity.
As we approach the 2024 election, it is crucial for voters to be vigilant and demand stringent observation of all points in the voting process. If you submitted an early ballot make sure to track it. Citizens are encouraged to put pressure on officials to ensure a fair election. This includes advocating for transparency in ballot handling, secure storage and transportation of ballots, and proper verification procedures at polling places and for mail-in ballots. As Arizona continues to be a key battleground state, it is more important than ever to make sure the election process is secure and fair.
