Early voting helps democracy

As the Nov. 2 election approaches, many voters across the country are already heading to the polls. North Carolina is one 25 states that has early voting programs in place. “One Stop No Excuse Absentee Voting” began Oct. 14, allowing individuals to vote early until Oct. 30. Although early voting program are not new—in 2000 nearly 14 percent of ballots were cast early—this year officials expect an unprecedented early turnout.

Early voting options are a testament to the democratic process. They provide individuals with more opportunities to vote, and people who otherwise may not have voted can take advantage of these opportunities.

There are a number of reasons why individuals may be deterred from voting Nov. 2. Since election day is not a national holiday, many people are not able to get to the polls because of work. Others may find the lines on election day daunting. Increasing the times during which individuals can vote will likely increase overall voter turnout, which is a positive for the election process. Early voting also allows for increased activism, which will also encourage more people to vote.

Although early voting programs are beneficial to America’s democracy, it is not a panacea to voting problems. The problems made apparent during the 2000 presidential election will not be solved simply by increasing awareness of early voting options. Programs such as “One Stop No Excuses Absentee Voting” are one piece is a complex puzzle, and other aspects of the voting system—the way in which votes are cast and counted—still need to be reformed in order to ensure the fairest election possible.

Also, since early voting is still in its early stages, election officials need to be aware of the potential for problems and abuses of the system. Critics of early voting programs argue that the drawn-out voting period increases the chance of fraud.

If early voting continues to gain popularity, it is only a matter of time before politicians learn how to manipulate early voting to their advantage. A common criticism of the electoral college is that candidates can target their campaigns on a few large states and ignore other states. Similarly targeted campaigning could potentially result if early voting programs become widespread.

The ultimate goal of election officials must be to provide an accurate process that allows as many people as possible to vote without risking fraud or manipulation. Early voting may be one way in which to increase voter turnout, and having the highest turnout possible fulfills America’s democratic principles. The impact of a presidential election cannot be ignored; and it is always important to be cautious when dealing with such an important event.

Early voting is a good step for democracy, but it does not solve all of the voting problems in America. Early voting cannot be considered the end of election reform.