Will Restricting Early Voting In Arizona Curb Election Fraud?

Arizona has never quite shaken its wild, wild west reputation. That dusty, irascible, independent spirit seems so ingrained in us, at times, it seems like we have forgotten that we've officially been part of the union since 1912.

I'm not just talking about the people who were born and raised here, either. There's a spirit that takes over, no matter how long you've called the Grand Canyon State home.

The Great Arizona Election Fracas

A lot of people in the United States seem to forget Arizona exists. For the most part, we like to be considered "fly-over country". It means we get left alone to do our thing, without interference.

Once in a while, the rest of the world remembers we're here. Like in 2020, for example. Whispers then screams, of election fraud splashed into national headlines. It wasn't the type of thing most in Arizona wanted to be known for.

Coming into the next election cycle, many people are trying to find ways to avoid problems or even perceived issues long before they arise.

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Will Arizona Halt Election Day Early Ballots?

Will Arizona choose the convenience of dropping off early ballots on Election Day or opt for expedited vote counting? That's the question some Arizona lawmakers are tackling.

If the currently proposed measure passes, voters would have to submit their ballots no later than the Friday before an election. Voters dropping off early ballots on Election Day would be required to show ID verification and they'd be counted at the drop off site.

Arizona committee chair Wendy Rogers (R-Flagstaff) explains, "The goal here is accuracy, sanctity of the vote and timely reporting."

Arizona: Voter Convenience or Election Accuracy

Arizona’s early voting system is designed for voter convenience. However, the signature verification requirement when voters drop off early ballots is time-consuming. In the past, this process has caused delays in tabulating the winners, especially in tight races like the 2020 Arizona governor race or presidential election.

In years past, the time-consuming signature verification process for early ballots has delayed determining winners during tight races.

There's a lot of debate about this process. Critics say eliminating the Election Day drop-offs could inconvenience and discourage voters. Supporters of the measure say it emphasizes accuracy, sanctity, and timely reporting of results.

No matter how this is decided, it's likely to put Arizona voters back in the national spotlight.

The measure has already passed the Arizona House of Representatives. If the Senate passes the measure, it goes straight to the ballot for voters to decide without needing the governor's signature.