Keywords

trust, voter confidence, election administration, election integrity, election reform, election technology

Abstract

This paper explores the topic of voter confidence in U.S. election outcomes and seeks to identify the factors that influence that confidence. Given the increasing interest in questions surrounding election integrity and election security, it is important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current election structure in America. By analyzing components of the election process such as voter registration, voting machines and other election technology, along with existing voting laws and proposed legislation, I highlight key areas where voter confidence is strongly impacted. Through this research I determined that by improving voter education and awareness of functions within the election cycle, partnered with attention to the recommendations of technology experts and the election administrators responsible for conducting our elections, we can make strides towards bolstering trust in our elections and the selection of our leaders. At this juncture in our history, it is critical that we take a holistic approach to election reform, garnering support from both Democrats and Republicans, expert and layperson, electors and the elected, alike, lest we lose this sacred and fundamental American process.

Thesis Completion Year

2024

Thesis Completion Semester

Fall

Thesis Chair

Jewett, Aubrey

College

College of Sciences

Department

School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs

Thesis Discipline

Political Science

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Subjects

Election security; Voting research; Elections--Methodology; Voting--Psychological aspects; Elections--U.S. states--Public opinion

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Rights Statement

In Copyright