A 2020 ‘ how to guide’ for the American voter
What to expect when expecting a different kind of election
With numerous courtroom battles over vote by mail, voters in the Keystone State are seeing the politicization of voting unfold before their eyes. Pennsylvania, like the rest of the American electorate, is growing increasingly polarized by rising partisanship, foreign and domestic disinformation campaigns, racial tensions fueled by systemic racism and inequality, the COVID- 19 pandemic, and confusion about the voting process.
It’s the main reason former Vice President Joe Biden visited Latrobe recently.
The most important issue on the ballot this year may be preserving our democracy and the electoral process. As cybersecurity, election and disinformation experts who study attacks on free and fair elections, there are three major trends that keep us up at night.
First, people do not know where to turn for information, or let alone how to process it in today’s rapid news cycle. The constant barrage of online news has created an environment in which the American electorate does not know what sources to trust, and who and how to engage with public and community leaders before forming an opinion and heading to the ballot box.
Second, this election will be fundamentally different than any before. Millions of Americans will be voting by mail for the very first time, and experts expect delays in election result reporting. The electorate needs to understand how these changes may affect Election Day.
Third, everyone, from the most well- meaning expert or candidate to the most malicious actor, will want to fill any information voids. For example, if there are significant delays with delivering ballots by mail from the United States Postal Service, as many experts fear due to cuts in funding for the USPS, then every talking head and candidate will speculate and provide a reason why. If there aren’t clear election results on Nov. 4, every news station and online influencer will weigh in. Speculation and sensationalized scenarios fill an information void which often are fueled by half- truths and opinions.
These situations can breed fear and sow distrust in our democratic system, creating a lasting effect for decades to come.
Despite these challenges and changes, we can absolutely have an effective election that advances an important democratic process. Each citizen has a role to play to mitigate risk and preserve the integrity of the vote. There are five simple steps that you can take to protect your constitutional rights.
First, don’t let reality apathy stop you from exercising your right to vote. The feeling of helplessness and sensory overload can dissuade people from voting. You can combat that feeling by learning how elections will be facilitated in your state, including how to safely vote in person or by mail. And remember that election results will likely be delayed.
Second, think critically about the information you consume, and do your own research before voting in November. This includes getting the information ahead of time about candidates and issues on the ballot. Be critical of unsubstantiated claims that may arise on Election Day or in the lead up as well- meaning and malicious actors try to fill the news cycle. Connect with your local election office for the best source of information.
Third, know your rights before you vote. As states grapple with containing COVID- 19, closed polling locations and process changes, it is highly likely that there will be day- of voting obstacles. Make sure that you confirm your registration status now. Be prepared for longer than usual lines. Remember it is a federal crime to intimidate voters. And you have a duty to report election complaints with Pennsylvania Voter Services by calling 1- 877VOTESPA.
Fourth, consider volunteering as a poll worker. Unlike any in recent history, this election will need all hands on deck. Not only are you protecting the right to vote, but could also be helping to protect older poll workers who are concerned about volunteering in the age of COVID- 19. Learn more by visiting your local elections office or the U. S. Election Assistance Commission.
Finally, follow health and safety guidelines to protect you and others while voting during the COVID- 19 pandemic. If you vote in- person, check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and your local county health and election offices about updated safety and security protocols.
Voting is a fundamental right for U. S. citizens, and while domestic and foreign actors may seek to alter that right, don’t let them. Do your homework. Be prepared. Stay informed. And most importantly: Vote!
Camille Stewart is an attorney and Cyber Fellow at Harvard Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. Vera Zakem is the Founder of Zakem Global Strategies and a senior policy and technology adviser at the Institute for Security and Technology.