Massachusetts Considers Voter ID, Election Audits Amid Fraud Concerns

The fairness and accuracy of elections have generated lots of discussion in recent years at all levels of government. Ballot harvesting, mail-in ballots and same-day voter registration are just some of the concerns.

Why Election Integrity Is in the Spotlight

The 2016 and 2020 national elections raised issues about cheating, something that has been alleged, again, at all levels of government for many years.

"Vote early and vote often" is a phrase that dates back to the 1850s. Allegations of dead people voting are as old as ballots themselves.

Recent Case Highlights Voting Concerns

The Boston Herald reported, "A Colombian woman illegally in Massachusetts is accused of living under a stolen identity for more than 20 years and receiving more than $400,000 in stolen federal benefits." The woman also allegedly voted illegally in the 2024 elections.

Voter fraud is possible – and it does happen.

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What the Proposed Laws Would Do

A Massachusetts Legislative committee is considering several pieces of legislation aimed at improving election integrity. One bill would allow for election audits to ensure election results are accurate.

Springfield-based WWLP-TV reported League of Women Voters Elections and Voting Specialist Neil Forgacs told lawmakers, "Often, the biggest question on voters' minds is, did the reported winner get the most votes?"

How Other States Handle Election Audits

Eleven states, including Connecticut and Maine, require election audits.

The United States Election Assistance Commission said, "Election audits ensure voting systems operate accurately, that election officials comply with regulations or internal policies, and resolve discrepancies in an effort to promote voter confidence in the election administration process."

What Happens Next on Beacon Hill

WWLP reported the committee is also reviewing bills that would require voter ID and "strengthen security for unattended ballot boxes." No word on when or whether these proposals will be reported out of committee.