Why Fingerprint Readers Are Not Required on Voting Machines and Mail-In Ballots

Despite advances in technology, the use of fingerprint readers on voting machines or mail-in ballots has not been mandated in the United States. This reflects ongoing debates surrounding voter identification, fraud prevention, and the protection of privacy. In this article, we explore the arguments both for and against the adoption of fingerprint readers in the electoral process, focusing on the key challenges and considerations.

Understanding Current Voter Identification Systems

In the United States, current voter identification systems primarily rely on a barcode that is unique to each individual voter and issued by the appropriate electoral officials. This barcode is typically associated with the voter's address and other registration information. The system ensures that each ballot is uniquely identifiable and matches the voter's records. Any attempt to forge a barcode would be easily detected by the electoral system, thereby preventing potential fraudulent activities.

Mail-In Ballots and Voter Integrity Claims

There are claims that vote by mail is a Democrat cheating scam. Some argue that vote by mail should be made illegal, citing potential security risks. However, such claims are often unsubstantiated and driven by political agendas. Mail-in ballots, if properly secured, can ensure the integrity of the voting process.

The Controversy Surrounding Fingerprint Readers

Opponents of fingerprint readers argue that they undermine the anonymity of voting and could disproportionately impact certain voter groups. Fingerprint readers, while effective in many commercial applications, may not be ideal for high-volume use in elections. There are several reasons for this:

Technical Reliability: Fingerprint readers can become less reliable with frequent use, leading to “smudges” and failed scans. This could result in voter disenfranchisement or long lines at polling stations. Inclusivity: Not all voters may have access to or familiarity with fingerprint readers. Older voters, for example, may struggle with the technology, which could disproportionately impact their voting rights. Data Management: The maintenance and secure storage of fingerprint data pose significant logistical and security challenges. Loss of fingerprint data or breaches could lead to voter disenfranchisement or identity theft.

Evaluating the Risks and Benefits

The efficacy of fingerprint readers in preventing voter fraud is often questioned. Critics argue that most attempts at voter fraud involve more subtle methods, such as Gerrymandering or tampering with electronic voting machines (EVMs). These methods are far more effective in manipulating election outcomes than duplicate voting.

Many long-standing concerns about the anonymity of voting are unfounded. The current system, while not perfect, provides a reasonable level of integrity and privacy. Removing anonymity could lead to voter intimidation and potentially discrimination against certain groups, which far outweigh the perceived benefits of fraud prevention.

A Historical Perspective on Voting Methods

In comparison to earlier voting systems, such as in-person voting with strict ID checks, there is a general sense that mail-in ballots represent a more democratic approach. This shift has generally been well-received, provided that safeguards are in place to prevent fraud and ensure the integrity of the voting process.

Challenges and Future Directions

As technology continues to evolve, there may be emerging solutions that balance security and inclusivity. Blockchain technologies and other advanced cryptographic methods might offer new ways to secure voter data without relying on potentially unreliable biometric devices. Nonetheless, any such solution must be thoroughly tested and proven to be both secure and user-friendly.

In conclusion, while the debate around voter identification and fraud prevention continues, the current reliance on barcodes and mail-in ballots, alongside existing voter-ID requirements, seems to strike a reasonable balance between security, convenience, and inclusivity. Fingerprint readers, for now, remain a topic of discussion rather than a necessary addition to the electoral process.