Staff Reports
In the lead-up to the 2024 election, some key swing states have put new voting laws in place that could impact the outcome of pivotal races. The battle for the White House between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is likely to hinge on these changes, which are aimed at either enhancing accessibility or beefing up security. Here’s a look at four states where the voting laws have recently undergone a makeover.
First up is North Carolina, where voters are now required to present a photo ID for the first time in order to participate in elections. This move, which has been in the works since 2018, places North Carolina in the company of more than a dozen states that demand a photo ID to cast a ballot in a presidential election. In addition to this, the state legislature has pushed for changes to the composition of the election board, seeking to shift the balance of power in its favor. Despite being blocked by a North Carolina superior court last month, it seems unlikely that this law will take effect for the 2024 election.
How voting laws are changing in four swing states in 2024 – Washington Examiner https://t.co/Pu3j5tds6Y
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In Michigan, lawmakers have made several tweaks to the state’s election laws, including implementing a nine-day early voting period and requiring voters to sign an affidavit or provide photo identification when casting their ballots. Furthermore, 16- and 17-year-olds are now permitted to preregister to vote for future elections, a move that has some conservatives concerned about potential voter fraud.
Georgia has implemented some controversial changes to its voting systems, drawing criticism from several prominent Democrats, including President Biden. These changes, solidified by Gov. Brian Kemp with Senate Bill 202, have tightened early and mail-in voting regulations, such as requiring a photo ID to apply for an absentee ballot and prohibiting advocates from providing food, drink, and gifts to voters waiting in line. Moreover, a pending measure might prevent the use of QR codes for ballot counting, instead requiring marks or plain text, thereby adding another layer of confusion to an already complex process.
And lastly, in Pennsylvania, Gov. Josh Shapiro has introduced automatic voter registration, allowing citizens obtaining or renewing their driver’s licenses at the Department of Motor Vehicles to be registered to vote unless they specifically decline. Additionally, a recent court ruling has determined that undated mail-in ballots in the state may not be counted, potentially leading to the invalidation of a number of ballots in what is expected to be a tightly contested election.
In conclusion, these changes to voting laws in key swing states may have a significant impact on the 2024 election, particularly in light of the contentious race between President Biden and former President Trump. It remains to be seen how these changes will play out and whether they will ultimately affect the outcome of the race for the White House.
