Voting power in crucial election year: Preventing election deniers
American democracy is under threat as election deniers, who reject the results of the 2020 election and attend anti-democratic protests, seek positions of power as top election officials. Voters must stand against these individuals by casting informed, educated votes and supporting candidates dedicated to preserving our democratic institutions.
As we approach a critical election year, with 26 secretary of state races and various local elections taking place across the country, false information, suppression, and manipulation pose significant challenges. To protect our democracy, we must sever ties with these threats and champion those committed to the sanctity of our democratic institutions.
The ongoing assault on American democracy necessitates everyone's involvement – Democrats, Republicans, and Independents – recognizing the perils ahead and combating them head-on. Here are some strategies for voters to employ in this important battle for the future of our democracy:
- Recognize and combat misinformation:
Falsified information undermining the integrity of elections must be identified and challenged. Engage in accurate information sharing and support organizations that work to combat disinformation.
- Support pro-democracy candidates:
Back candidates who prioritize upholding election integrity and protecting voting rights. Common Cause and similar organizations can provide resources to help voters distinguish pro-democracy contenders.
- Engage in voter registration and mobilization:
Promote registration and voter mobilization in underserved communities, which frequently fall victim to election denial tactics.
- Monitor and challenge election denial strategies:
Keep a close eye on election deniers' activities, such as voter registration challenges and attempts to upset the electoral process. Challenge these tactics legally and through public advocacy, as demonstrated in North Carolina's ongoing court battles to safeguard the election system.
- Advocate for strong election laws and regulations:
Stand behind legislation strengthening election laws and regulations, including the Voting Rights Advancement Act and Freedom to Vote Act. Such measures can aid in dismantling voter suppression and ensuring fair and accessible elections.
- Hold election officials accountable:
Ensure that election officials are held responsible for their actions through public scrutiny, media coverage, and community oversight. Organizations like Common Cause provide voter guides to evaluate politicians' support for pro-democracy bills, helping informed decision-making.
- Promote election data transparency:
Support increased transparency in election data to foster public trust in the electoral process by making data accessible and requiring election officials to disclose their methods.
By deploying these strategies, voters can stand up to election deniers, preserve American democracy, and ensure a fair and democratic electoral process.
Resources:
- Common Cause website:
- "Fighting Election Denialism with Pro-Democracy Tactics" from The HuffPost:
- "Preventing Election Exit: An Examination of Election Integrity Legislation" by The Brookings Institution:
