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A lot of the discussion about how to safely conduct the November #Election2020 focuses on the availability of mail-in voting. But, my work with @qhodgson highlights other aspects of the voting process that require attention. (1/7)
1. Verification: Some states require that mail-in ballots be signed by a witness or even a notary. Neither supports efforts to promote social distancing, and if more people vote by mail, demand for notaries could be unmanageable.
2. Ballot due date: In most states, mail-in ballots must be received by election day, so voters must complete & return ballots well in advance. Delays getting ballots to voters could make such timelines difficult. “Postmarked by election day” deadlines give voters more time.
3. Early voting options: Allowing voters to cast their ballots early supports physical distancing and can reduce crowds on election day.
4. Voter registration: Data show voter registration numbers are way down this year. Automatic voter registration, online registration, and election day registration provide options that reduce person-to-person contact and allow for some remote processing.
You can see how states vary on these dimensions here: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA112-8.html
And explore your state using our online tool: https://www.rand.org/research/projects/truth-decay/elections-during-a-pandemic/state-voting-processes.html#state-list=AL&map-tab=map-overall /end
