Ann Arbor Times

The 2024 presidential elections, according to several polls, are expected to be a close race, particularly in swing states where some votes could significantly impact the outcome.

Barbara McQuade, a professor from practice at the University of Michigan Law School, emphasized the importance of voters being proactive about checking their voter registration and confirming poll locations. This necessity arises partly due to tougher election laws enacted last year following Republican efforts for stricter rules in 2020.

McQuade expressed concern over potential Election Day problems, citing aggressive challenges to election results witnessed in 2020 and ongoing disinformation and influence campaigns by hostile foreign adversaries. "In response to baseless claims of voter fraud in 2020, several states passed new laws making it more difficult to vote in the name of election security," she noted. Additionally, concerns have been raised about delays in mail delivery potentially preventing some mail-in ballots from being counted.

In terms of publicizing voting guidelines, McQuade highlighted that Michigan's Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has been actively working with community ambassadors to counteract disinformation and assist voters with reliable information on how to vote. However, other states have imposed more restrictions aimed at reducing alleged voter fraud, leading to purges of voter rolls and reductions in ballot deposit boxes. "Voters should check early to determine whether they are registered and learn the current options for casting a ballot in their state," she advised.

Addressing the 14th Amendment's protections for citizens' rights amidst various voting restrictions, McQuade explained that while this amendment provides equal protection under the law—including voting rights—states may still impose narrowly tailored rules serving compelling government interests. For instance, some states restrict felons' right to vote.

For ensuring eligibility either for in-person or absentee voting, McQuade recommended that eligible voters register through their state's designated channels well before Election Day. She stressed checking polling locations and arranging transportation if necessary. Moreover, understanding identification requirements is crucial; obtaining an appropriate form of ID ahead of time can be a significant task due to its controversial nature.

Regarding handling situations where voters are denied opportunities at the polls on Election Day, McQuade suggested seeking assistance from volunteers present at polling places or casting provisional ballots if turned away unjustly. "Most states allow voters to cast a provisional ballot if they are turned away from the polls and believe they are eligible," she said. This ensures that eligible votes can still be counted after verification.