Securing Wisconsin Absentee Ballots: A Push For Watermarks
In a bid to bolster election integrity, Wisconsin State Rep. Scott Allen (R) has proposed an initiative to introduce watermarks on the state’s absentee ballots. This move resonates with a national concern among conservatives to secure the voting process, especially following the rise of mail-in voting during the 2020 election.
Allen, articulating the concerns and aspirations of numerous citizens, stated, “Our citizens need to have faith in the integrity of our election process.” He emphasized the necessity to balance the convenience of absentee ballots and the critical need for secure voting. This measure aims to restore trust and confidence in the electoral process, particularly with the increased reliance on absentee ballots amid the current societal climate.
The proposed watermark, akin to those seen on U.S. dollar bills, would deter any efforts to copy or forge ballots, reinforcing their authenticity. Allen conveyed, “If we are going to continue using absentee ballots, then it is important to ensure that they are a safe and reliable method for voting.” This sentiment has struck a chord with many conservatives nationwide, reflecting their consistent demand for a robust and trustworthy voting system.
The focus on Wisconsin’s absentee ballots originated from the scrutiny following the November 2020 election. The state witnessed a significant increase in early and non-in-person voting. A notable incident involved a Waukesha voter who reportedly received the wrong absentee ballot, which excluded Allen’s race against Democrat Aaron Perry.
Allen’s proposal will need to navigate the legislative process. It faces an uphill battle, given Governor Tony Evers’ standing policy to veto any legislation that he believes complicates the voting process in Wisconsin.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first proposal of its kind. Tennessee enacted a similar law requiring watermarks on absentee ballots in 2021. It was a bipartisan effort, with the Tennessee Election Integrity Act passing nearly unanimously. Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D) commended the bill, stating, “Democrats are for secure elections.” This shows that security measures can transcend political divide and achieve broad consensus.
Cost concerns regarding the implementation of watermarks have been minimal, as illustrated by Tennessee’s experience. The five vendors providing paper for absentee ballots in Tennessee can incorporate the watermarks. The estimated cost was a mere $105 per election commission. It seems a small price to restore faith in the electoral process.
As Wisconsinites await the fate of Allen’s proposal, it’s essential to consider the broader narrative. The pursuit of election integrity remains paramount to sustaining our democratic system. Despite differing perspectives on achieving it, there’s a shared acknowledgment of its necessity.
