Ensuring Election Integrity and Expanding Voting Rights: A Conversation with Michael Latner
In the wake of the 2020 presidential election and the January 6th Capitol insurrection, concerns about the integrity of elections and the suppression of voting rights have intensified. In this article, we delve into the efforts of Michael Latner, a political science professor and Kendall Fellow at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), to promote election data transparency, equitable ballot design, and fair voting-district mapping.
Defining Election Science
Michael Latner explains the concept of election science as the application of quantitative and statistical tools to evaluate election administration, operations, and outcomes. The goal is to accurately capture relevant information throughout the electoral ecosystem, from registration and voting records to administrative procedures and election results certification. By analyzing this data, election scientists aim to identify potential electoral process problems and sources of bias.
Reviewing Election Laws and Procedures
Latner and his UCS colleagues are reviewing election laws, procedures, and rules in several states, including Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. They are examining challenges and solutions for ensuring election integrity, focusing on voter database maintenance, ballot tracing and processing, and ballot curing, auditing, and certification. The goal is to develop universal standards and best practices to improve election data transparency and public confidence in election outcomes.
Addressing Equitable Ballot Design
Latner emphasizes the importance of equitable ballot design to reduce errors and improve ballot completion rates. He highlights the need for clear and understandable election materials, including ballots and voter application forms, to minimize ballot irregularities and ensure that all voters can participate effectively. The UCS team is working in target states to improve the design of 2024 election materials, addressing administrative issues and pursuing legislative changes where necessary.
Court Challenges to Gerrymandering
In recent years, congressional maps drawn after the 2020 Census have been challenged in court, with some rulings protecting voter rights. Latner expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of court-designed redistricting, emphasizing the need for clear rules and standards to guide redistricting authorities. He advocates for public involvement in the redistricting process and the development of best practices for public input and inclusion requirements.
Assessing the Impact of Voting Rights Act Rulings
Latner discusses a recent federal appeals court ruling that asserted that only the federal government can sue under a Voting Rights Act section prohibiting voting laws that discriminate on the basis of race. He views this decision as a potential threat to the Voting Rights Act and expresses hope that it will be appealed and reconsidered by higher courts. He emphasizes the importance of upholding the right of private parties to bring discrimination lawsuits to protect voting rights.
Legislative Efforts to Protect Voting Rights
Latner acknowledges the challenges in pushing back against state attacks on voting rights in the current political climate. He cites the lack of progress on bills like the Freedom to Vote Act, the Fair Representation Act, and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act in Congress. He highlights the need for structural reforms to guarantee the integrity of elections and the quality of representation for US residents.
Empowering the Public to Protect Voting Rights
Latner encourages the general public to take action to protect voting rights. He shares the inspiring example of Katie Fahey, a Michigan resident who led a grassroots campaign to establish an independent commission for redistricting, resulting in fairer district lines. He emphasizes the importance of supporting organizations working to increase electoral participation, volunteering at election time, and voting for candidates who advocate for electoral integrity and universal standards for free and fair elections.
Conclusion
The conversation with Michael Latner sheds light on the ongoing efforts to protect voting rights and ensure election integrity in the United States. It underscores the need for transparent election processes, equitable ballot design, fair redistricting practices, and the active participation of citizens in safeguarding their democratic rights.
As concerned citizens, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate fully in the democratic process. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society where the voices of all are heard.