In a House Administration Committee hearing, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, both Democrats, emphasized the need for additional federal funding to enhance election infrastructure. The officials highlighted the importance of resources to bolster election security, modernize equipment, recruit staff, and update voter registration systems. They affirmed their commitment to assisting eligible voters and preventing ineligible individuals from participating in the upcoming presidential election.
As the 2020 election approaches and absentee ballots are being sent out to voters, election processes are under increased scrutiny. False claims of widespread fraud by Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump have led to concerns about voter eligibility and the integrity of the electoral system. Such disinformation has resulted in threats against election officials, prompting the need for heightened security measures.
Fontes detailed various measures taken by Arizona to promote voter confidence and strengthen election security, including exercises, a ballot-tracking system, and technical support for county election offices. However, he stressed the lack of sustained federal funding for this critical infrastructure. Fontes urged policymakers to prioritize funding elections, likening it to investments in other essential public services.
The Republican chair of the committee, Rep. Bryan Steil of Wisconsin, advocated for the SAVE Act, a Republican-backed proposal that mandates proof of citizenship for voters. The legislation aims to provide election administrators with access to a federal database to verify voter eligibility. Despite Michigan’s robust verification processes, the SAVE Act proponents argue that the mandate is necessary to prevent noncitizen voting.
The discussion also touched on election fraud prevention strategies in New Mexico and insights from Republican secretaries of state from Florida, Ohio, and West Virginia. Despite differing perspectives on proposed legislation and funding priorities, the consensus among officials and experts is that existing measures ensure the security and accuracy of American elections.