Monitoring Ballot Drop Boxes: A Controversial Move in Arizona
During the 2022 midterm election, some voters alleged voter intimidation after people watching the boxes took photos and videos and followed them.
A conservative organization has recently announced plans to monitor ballot drop boxes in Arizona for the upcoming November election. The organization, known as the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), aims to identify individuals they believe are voting illegally. This move has raised concerns as similar actions by right-wing groups during the previous election cycle sparked controversy despite no evidence of widespread electoral fraud.
Reports emerged during the 2022 midterm election of people, some armed, monitoring drop boxes in Maricopa and Yavapai counties in Arizona. This prompted local and federal law enforcement to intervene, with a federal judge ordering the individuals to keep their distance from voters to prevent any potential voter intimidation.
Some of the individuals monitoring the drop boxes were associated with the far-right group Oath Keepers and engaged in behavior that raised concerns among voters. Allegations of voter intimidation surfaced as people monitoring the boxes took photos and videos of voters and followed them, creating a hostile environment at the ballot drop-off locations.
In response to CPAC’s plans, officials from Arizona’s Secretary of State and Attorney General have expressed reservations, pointing out that such monitoring efforts may only fuel existing skepticism about the integrity of U.S. elections. They emphasized the need for transparency and fair conduct during the electoral process.
CPAC leaders, including chairman Matt Schlapp and vice chairman Bill Walton, defended their intentions, citing a desire to address right-leaning voters’ concerns about election integrity, particularly in light of heightened skepticism following the COVID-19 pandemic. They proposed guidelines for monitoring drop boxes, including restrictions on weapons, defensive gear, and proximity limits around the boxes to ensure a non-invasive approach.
As discussions between CPAC and state officials continue, the focus remains on upholding the integrity of Arizona’s elections while addressing voter concerns and maintaining transparency in the electoral process. The decision on monitoring ballot drop boxes in the upcoming election will undoubtedly impact the confidence and trust of voters in the democratic process.
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