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The topic of election integrity has sparked heated debates as we approach the 2024 presidential election. Despite the controversies, now is an ideal moment to assess the voting systems utilized throughout the nation to reduce any uncertainty regarding election integrity, regardless of political affiliation.
Recent Gallup data reveals a concerning trend: the number of Americans expressing “no confidence” in the accuracy of their votes has jumped from 6% in 2004 to 19% today. This rise is largely driven by a notable decline in Republican trust in the election process since 2020, although Democratic confidence remains sturdy, with about 84% feeling “very or somewhat confident.”
The disparity in confidence levels between the two major political parties raises questions; however, the underlying issue is more significant: 19% of voters are utterly lacking in confidence regarding how their votes are managed during elections. There are numerous vulnerabilities within the current system, including issues of multiple voting by mail, susceptibility of voting machines to cyberattacks, voting from deceased individuals, and traditional voter intimidation practices—issues that can potentially impact voters from both parties.
Contrastingly, other nations, such as Taiwan, conduct their elections with immediate paper ballot counting and publicly tallied results within six hours. In the U.S., states like Georgia and Pennsylvania may take days to report results. While we hope for decisive election outcomes, particularly in battleground states where vote counts can be extensive, it raises the question: If Taiwan can declare their election winners in a single day, why can’t we?
A Blockchain Solution
Some conservatives are advocating for a return to traditional paper ballots, tighter regulations on absentee and mail-in voting, alongside national voter ID requirements, while many Democrats are resistant to these ideas. But what if there exists a less divisive solution to enhance election integrity through blockchain technology, incorporating zero-knowledge proofs? What could this propose?
By implementing a voting contract on a blockchain, consensus must first be achieved among all validators regarding the accuracy of transactions under that contract, extending beyond just poll workers or election officials.
This could enable a verifiable blockchain voting system allowing individuals to cast their ballots remotely via personal devices. In states requiring voter ID, identity proof can be verified using biometric tools, similar to WorldCoin’s iris scanning, linking votes to verified identities. Even without voter IDs, the proof would confirm personal identity and confirm the voter is actively present at their computer during the ballot casting process.
In such a structured environment, voters could log in and vote while being restricted to a single vote due to their unique ID linkage. This system would allow individuals to cast their votes securely from home, alleviating potential intimidation risks at polling locations. Moreover, zero-knowledge proofs can ensure individual participation without disclosing specific voting choices, employing cryptographic means to promote trust without exposing sensitive data. This could be vital for establishing a secure, blockchain-based election framework.
This proposed voting method significantly curtails the risk of fraud, as all absentee and mail-in ballots would be captured electronically and attributed to actual individuals. Additionally, it would simplify the voting process, potentially increasing overall turnout. Citizens living abroad could also vote easily by signing into the app.
While Democrats often oppose voter ID measures, a blockchain-verified system of this nature could enhance democracy by making voting more accessible for those facing challenges with in-person voting. This includes individuals with limited mobility, caretakers, or those reliant on distant public transport options for polling stations.
Earlier this year, California’s Department of Transportation successfully digitized 42 million vehicle titles on-chain, enabling title transfers that used to take weeks to be completed in mere minutes. Vehicle owners can now control their ownership records digitally via a verifiable credentials app akin to cryptocurrency wallets. If blockchain can securely manage vehicle titles, why shouldn’t it be trusted with our voting processes?
The Road Ahead
As zero-knowledge proofs become commonplace, we can envision a future where voting systems would be similarly modernized. Initially, such a system would promote democratic participation by providing access to voters irrespective of their circumstances, whether it be health-related, family responsibilities, job commitments, or distance from polling venues. This could lead to a significant spike in voter turnout.
The advancement of technology offers us the opportunity to fundamentally enhance election and voting systems in ways that are both fair and nonpartisan. It’s imperative to act now to bolster public confidence in our electoral processes; the American populace deserves nothing less.
