Reviving Voter Integrity: Key Insights from Iraq

A striking symbol of voter integrity emerged back in 2005 when an Iraqi woman showcased her purple-stained finger after voting in her country’s first free election in over fifty years. Overcoming the threats of violence, she demonstrated a significant commitment to democracy. Her image has since become synonymous with the fight for electoral rights.

The roots of democracy trace back to 5th century ancient Greece, where the term itself, derived from the Greek words for “people” (demos) and “rule” (kratos), highlights its foundational principle. Initially, only the ruling class in Athens was granted the privilege to vote, a disparity that raises questions about true representation.

Fast forward to modern-day United States, where the journey towards universal suffrage has been fraught with challenges. In 1789, the newly ratified Constitution limited voting rights predominantly to white landowners.

Significant milestones have marked progress in voter rights: the 15th Amendment in 1870 granted Black men the vote, while the 19th Amendment in 1920 finally allowed women nationwide to participate in elections. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 further solidified protections against racial discrimination in voting, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equal access.

Despite these advancements, issues concerning voter integrity persist. The rise of mail-in voting has introduced complexities, such as ballot harvesting, which can raise doubts about the authenticity of voters. Questions now arise: Are those completing the ballots truly registered voters?

In response to these concerns, Congress has introduced the Safeguard American Voters Eligibility Act (SAVE), which is currently awaiting discussion in the Senate. This proposed legislation mandates proof of citizenship for individuals registering to vote in federal elections. Although non-citizen voting is illegal, existing laws hinder states from verifying citizenship status during the electoral process.

On August 1, 2024, the 9th Circuit Court placed a stay on a new Arizona law requiring proof of citizenship for all elections, including federal ones. During the 2020 elections, approximately 11,600 individuals in Arizona cast federal-only ballots without proof of citizenship. This decision has been appealed to the US Supreme Court.

Amid a rising number of undocumented individuals entering the United States, ensuring that only citizens vote has become increasingly vital. Advocates for the SAVE Act argue that requiring identification during the registration and voting process can restore confidence in electoral integrity.

Enhanced legislation regarding voter integrity could bolster public trust in American elections, reminiscent of the pride demonstrated by voters in Iraq as they displayed their ink-stained fingers.

Paul Parisi is the Arizona Grassroots Director for Our America.