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Ensuring election integrity in Virginia calls for reasonable timelines [1]

['More From Author', 'January', 'Keith Balmer']

Date: 2024-01-30

Today, I address you not merely as an election official but as a concerned citizen of the commonwealth. My purpose is to illuminate the necessity for a reassessment of our state’s election timelines to guarantee the integrity and precision of our democratic procedures.

At the core of our electoral process lies a pivotal period known as “The Canvass.” This seven-day, post-election window requires careful examination as we navigate the intricacies associated with provisional and absentee ballots. While the resilience of our system was evident in the past two general elections, it is imperative that we prepare for the imminent challenges of a presidential cycle.

Since the implementation of same day registration in 2022, Richmond alone has experienced an influx of over 4,000 provisional ballots, notably from our college student population. As custodians of democracy, each ballot – whether cast in advance or on Election Day – warrants thorough verification and scrutiny. However, our current seven-day timeframe poses a threat to the thoroughness of this critical process; here are some of the challenges:

Strict Timeline Constraints: Section 24.2-671 mandates a narrow window for ascertaining results. This rigid framework does not account for the complexities of processing absentee results by precinct. Comprehensive Reporting: Accuracy remains our paramount concern. Detailed reporting demands meticulous attention, a luxury often denied within our current timeframe. Resource and Logistical Constraints: From staffing limitations to technological challenges, our capacity to expedite results within the seven-day limit is increasingly strained. Quality Assurance and Legal Compliance: Hasty proceedings undermine our duty to uphold election integrity. Compliance with the Virginia code’s provisions, especially regarding the counting of postmarked absentee ballots, necessitates time and diligence. External Factors: Unforeseen challenges like logistical hiccups, further constrict our ability to meet the seven-day deadline.

The proposed legislation House Bill 1238 offers a reasonable resolution. By affording registrars and electoral board members an additional three days, we can ensure that each ballot receives the attention it deserves, without compromising our commitment to timely results.

Virginia’s electoral process stands as a beacon of democracy. Yet, its resilience hinges on our ability to adapt and address evolving challenges. By supporting House Bill 1238, you would champion a system that values both timeliness and accuracy, safeguarding the trust and confidence of our electorate.

The invaluable insights of registrars across the commonwealth are worthy of consideration. Together, we can empower Virginia’s electoral system to navigate the complexities of modern elections, ensuring that every vote counts, every voice matters and our democracy endures.







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[1] Url: https://www.virginiamercury.com/2024/01/30/ensuring-election-integrity-in-virginia-calls-for-reasonable-timelines/

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