Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has taken decisive action to fortify election security with his latest move, Executive Order 35. This pivotal decision not only underscores the commitment of his administration to uphold the sanctity of the ballot but sets a shining example for states nationwide, urging them to follow suit—though, regrettably, many won’t.
A Model of Election Integrity
Governor Youngkin’s approach to election security isn’t just thorough; it’s groundbreaking. By instituting 100% paper ballots, Virginia ensures a tangible, verifiable voting method, far removed from the pitfalls of digital tampering. This physical evidence of each voter’s intent provides a clear trail from the ballot box to the final tally, making recounts not just possible but meaningfully accurate.
Moreover, the state’s counting machines are subjected to rigorous pre-election testing and are never connected to the internet, eliminating a significant vulnerability to cyber threats. This proactive measure ensures that the technological aspects of the voting process are both secure and reliable.
Beyond Ballots: Safeguarding Voter Rolls
Perhaps equally vital to the integrity of elections is the maintenance of accurate voter rolls. Under Youngkin’s directive, Virginia utilizes DMV data among other reliable sources to update voter lists daily. This system not only adds new voters but also scrubs the rolls of ineligible voters such as the deceased, those who have moved out of state, and non-citizens who may have been mistakenly or maliciously registered. Such diligence in maintaining clean voter lists prevents the dilution of legal votes by ensuring that every vote cast is legitimate.
A Strict Chain of Custody and No Mass Mailing
In another commendable move, Virginia maintains a strict chain of custody for all ballots and has steered clear of mass mailing ballots—an approach that has raised concerns in other states for its susceptibility to fraud. The state’s monitored drop boxes, which are watched around the clock, add another layer of security, ensuring that every ballot deposited is accounted for and protected from tampering.
Handling Violations with Firmness
Governor Youngkin’s executive order also addresses potential violations sternly. Non-citizens attempting to register to vote are referred not only to the local Commonwealth’s attorney but also to the Office of Attorney General, which holds concurrent jurisdiction. This firm stance on violations acts as a deterrent against attempts to undermine the election process.
Final Thoughts
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order 35 is more than just a set of procedures; it’s a blueprint for what election security should look like across the United States. While Virginia stands as a beacon of how to do things right, the reluctance of other states to adopt these stringent, effective measures is not just disappointing—it’s a disservice to their citizens. As Virginians enjoy the fruits of a secure and fair election system, one must wonder: why wouldn’t every state want to ensure that every legal vote counts in the most secure manner possible?
What do you think about Virginia’s approach to election security? Could these measures work in your state? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below—we’d love to hear your opinions!
Leave a Comment