Swing-State Election Officials Take Proactive Steps to Prevent 2020-Style Disruptions

As the upcoming elections approach, officials in key swing states are taking decisive measures to ensure that the electoral process remains smooth and free from the turmoil seen in 2020. In Arizona’s Pinal County, for example, Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh has made headlines for claiming that county officials conspired to manipulate his recent defeat in the sheriff’s primary election. However, independent investigators have debunked these allegations. During a recent board meeting, Cavanaugh stated he was voting to certify the election results “under duress,” highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding election integrity.

Since former President Donald Trump and his allies propagated unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud after the 2020 election, anxiety over election integrity has only intensified in critical battleground states. Confrontations over voting rules and the certification of election results have become increasingly contentious, putting significant pressure on local officials who are tasked with this essential duty.

As Election Day approaches, state officials are keen to prevent any disruptions that could arise from potential unrest surrounding the presidential race between Trump and his Democratic challenger, Vice President Kamala Harris. Among the measures being implemented are training sessions for judges on the strict timelines that election officials must adhere to, as well as the potential for criminal charges against those who refuse to fulfill their responsibilities.

In Wisconsin, where election conspiracy theories gained traction after President Joe Biden’s narrow victory in 2020, Ann Jacobs, chair of the state elections board, expressed cautious optimism. She noted, “Whatever saber-rattling you hear will eventually dissipate.” Jacobs acknowledged the existence of individuals willing to face severe penalties based on misguided beliefs, but she believes such individuals are relatively rare.

Tensions over election administration have manifested in various forms across the country, leading to severe repercussions for those who challenge the system. Voting rights organizations are particularly alert to any delays in certification, which could jeopardize states meeting the December 11 federal deadline for certifying their presidential electors. Jordan Libowitz, from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, emphasized the importance of safeguarding electoral integrity, stating, “The sanctity of our elections is unquestioned, and attempting to undermine that can and should have serious consequences.”

Since the 2020 election, 35 local officials nationwide have either refused or threatened to refuse to certify election results. This includes two GOP members of the Wayne County Board of Canvassers, who briefly questioned Michigan’s election results before ultimately backing down.

In response to the chaotic aftermath of 2020, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2022 that reinforces the legal obligation of election boards to certify results. Similarly, in a small rural county in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a top aide to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson warned of potential legal and financial ramifications for two Republican board members who initially voted against certifying a local recall election.

In North Carolina, where the stakes are high for the upcoming 2024 election, the State Board of Elections removed two local election board members who had refused to certify results in their county. This unprecedented action highlighted the seriousness with which state officials are addressing certification disputes.

Arizona has emerged as a focal point for election-related conspiracy theories, particularly since Biden’s narrow victory in 2020. Two Republican members of the Cochise County Board of Supervisors are set to go on trial in January for criminal charges related to their refusal to certify the county’s 2022 general election results by the legal deadline. Their indictments highlight the state’s commitment to ensuring compliance with election laws.

Arizona’s Democratic Attorney General, Kris Mayes, has signaled a firm stance against officials who resist their responsibilities, a message echoed by Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes. Fontes is actively strategizing legal responses to any challenges that may arise, ensuring that judges are aware of key deadlines to facilitate quick resolutions.

In Pennsylvania, where recent court actions compelled three counties to certify their midterm results, Secretary of State Al Schmidt has been proactive in coordinating with local election officials across all 67 counties. He expressed confidence in the professionalism of election directors, emphasizing a commitment to ensuring that elections run smoothly.

Joanna Lydgate, president and CEO of the bipartisan States United Democracy Center, remarked on the resilience of the certification process, stating, “Every effort to derail certification since the 2020 election has failed.” She emphasized that certification is a ministerial duty, not a platform for debating election administration issues.

In Pinal County, Cavanaugh has pressed forward with allegations of fraud regarding his primary loss, claiming that workers and officials conspired to alter election outcomes. However, a recent independent analysis found no evidence supporting his claims. Despite expressing distrust in the county’s election administration, Cavanaugh indicated he would fulfill his certification responsibilities, underscoring the obligation of officials to adhere to the law.

As Election Day approaches, officials across swing states are working diligently to avoid the chaos that marred the 2020 election, striving to maintain the integrity of the electoral process amidst ongoing tensions and claims of misconduct.