As the 2024 presidential election draws closer, with a potential showdown between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, a significant portion of the American population is once again choosing to vote by mail. According to figures from the University of Florida, over 66 million mail ballots have been requested, and more than 30 million have already been returned.
The option of voting by mail has become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic, as it offers a safe and convenient way for individuals to participate in the democratic process. However, recent mishaps have raised concerns among voters about the security and reliability of the mail-in voting system. Instances such as ballot drop boxes being set on fire in Oregon and Washington, as well as a stash of sealed ballots falling out of an election worker’s truck in Miami, have sparked worries about the integrity of the electoral process.
In light of these incidents, many voters are seeking reassurance that their mail-in ballots will reach their intended destination and be counted accurately. One way to address these concerns is through ballot tracking systems, which allow individuals to monitor the status of their ballots online. Not only does this help reduce the burden on local election offices by minimizing phone inquiries, but it also helps restore trust in the voting process, according to national election expert Amber McReynolds.
“Voters, if they’re signed up for something like this, or even if they just call and look up the information, it actually does give them confidence that their ballot has been received and successfully processed,” McReynolds explained.
Which States Allow Ballot Tracking?
Nearly all states, with the exception of Illinois, Missouri, and Wyoming, as well as Washington, D.C., offer some form of ballot tracking for both mail-in and absentee ballots. Websites like Vote.org provide links to each state’s tracking tools, as well as resources for individuals who have questions about the status of their provisional ballot. Voters can find their state’s lookup tool on the Vote.org website.
Steps for Tracking Your Ballot
If you have already submitted your absentee or mail-in ballot and wish to track its progress, there are several steps you can take. The first step is to visit your state’s online portal, where you will need to provide basic information such as your name, date of birth, and zip code.
Tracking methods may vary depending on the state, with some states offering basic information such as the date the ballot was mailed and received, while others allow voters to sign up for notifications through services like BallotTrax or Enhanced Voting. These services provide more detailed updates on the ballot’s journey via text, email, or phone call.
Another option for monitoring your ballot is to sign up for Informed Delivery through the U.S. Postal Service, which enables users to preview images of incoming mail and packages.
How Is Ballot Tracking Implemented?
The process of tracking mail-in ballots typically involves coordination between the USPS, election officials, and the ballot printing and preparation vendor. Companies like BallotTrax utilize unique Intelligent Mail Barcodes (IMB) identifiers that capture data about the ballots’ whereabouts. These barcodes, embedded on the envelopes, in conjunction with voter registration data, enable the company to track the ballots throughout the mailing process.
In conclusion, while the option of voting by mail provides a convenient and accessible way for individuals to participate in elections, recent incidents of ballot mishandling have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. By utilizing ballot tracking systems and other monitoring tools, voters can ensure that their ballots are received and processed correctly, thus helping to safeguard the democratic principles of free and fair elections.
