The Controversy Surrounding Internet Voting: Balancing Convenience and Security

Michigan Democrats' Move to Expand Overseas Voting Sparks Heated Debate

In recent developments, Democratic lawmakers in Michigan have embarked on a mission that has stirred up a hornet's nest. Their legislation, House Bill 4210, seeks to expand overseas voting, a move that has left election security experts deeply concerned. In this article, we will delve into the heart of the matter, examining the pros and cons of this controversial proposal.

The Expansion Plan: A Brave Venture or a Risky Gamble?

Michigan's legislative journey began last year with a law permitting military members to cast their votes electronically. However, the latest development pushes the envelope further by including spouses and voting-age dependents. Representative Christine Morse of Texas Township passionately advocates for this expansion, arguing that families living abroad should not sacrifice their constitutional right to vote.

Morse herself experienced the frustration of an uncounted vote during her time on a military base in Japan. Unfortunately, her case is far from unique. During the last presidential election, federal data revealed that a staggering 4.6% of military and overseas ballots from Michigan were rejected, primarily due to late mail returns. This figure stands in stark contrast to the less than 1% rejection rate for absentee ballots overall.

The Battle of Ideals: Convenience vs. Security

While proponents of this move argue that electronic voting for military spouses, primarily women, increases their opportunities to exercise their voting rights, a cloud of doubt looms over the concept. Election security experts like C.Jay Coles from Verified Voting caution against introducing the internet into the voting process, emphasizing the potential risks.

Coles paints a bleak picture, warning that a compromised system could lead to a "crisis of confidence in our entire democracy." The consequences of electronic voting are grave, with the potential for large-scale alterations to voted ballots and vote counts if hackers can penetrate the new electronic infrastructure.

The Security Dilemma: Can It Be Safeguarded?

In 2020, a commission appointed by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson recommended avoiding electronic overseas ballot return, citing the absence of adequately secure technology. They expressed doubts about reliably securing the ballot throughout its journey to the local jurisdiction. House Bill 4210 now mandates that Benson's office establish a secure system by September 1, 2025, ensuring the integrity and secrecy of electronically voted ballots.

The requirements include signature matching and the physical mailing of ballots to local clerks. While some states have implemented electronic voting systems with safeguards, such as Colorado's requirement to print electronically returned ballots and create an auditable paper trail, Coles maintains that any form of electronic ballot return sacrifices voter privacy and opens the door to hacking.

The Lesson from Washington, D.C.: A Cautionary Tale

A decade ago, Washington, D.C., implemented an electronic ballot return system, only to have a team led by cybersecurity expert J. Alex Halderman from the University of Michigan remotely hack and alter every vote within a mere 48 hours. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of electronic systems and the risks they pose to the sanctity of the vote.

Exploring Alternative Solutions: A Necessity

In light of these concerns, it becomes imperative to explore alternative solutions for making voting easier for military spouses overseas. C.Jay Coles suggests engaging with the U.S. Postal Service and the Defense Department to seek expedited ballot return or free postage as potential solutions.

The Path Forward: Balancing Act in Progress

In the days ahead, House Bill 4210 faces the arduous task of clearing a Senate committee and the full Senate, both under Democratic control, before it can become law with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's signature. Governor Whitmer has already expressed her support for the bill, while it enjoys backing from Michigan's associations of county and municipal clerks. The state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs remains neutral in this ongoing debate.

As Michigan wrestles with the decision to embrace internet voting, the nation watches with bated breath, torn between the convenience it promises and the security it risks. The path forward is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the discussion around this topic is far from over. What are your thoughts on this controversial issue? Share your opinions and join the conversation.