Election 101: How Voting Looks Different In 2024
1Digest
This podcast delves into the complexities of voting in the United States, focusing on the 2020 election and its aftermath. The discussion begins with a road trip narrative, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and the opportunity to visit historical landmarks. The podcast then transitions to a deeper analysis of voting patterns, exploring the rise of early voting and the changing landscape of voter registration. Concerns about the US Postal Service and its potential impact on voting by mail are addressed, with election officials raising concerns about mail handling procedures and delays. The podcast also examines the charged atmosphere surrounding the election and the anxieties of both voters and election officials, discussing the potential for violence at polling places and the importance of maintaining a calm and respectful environment. The podcast revisits the 2020 election and the "fake electors" scheme, where pro-Trump electors in seven states attempted to overturn the election results. They discuss the ongoing legal challenges and the potential for similar attempts in the 2024 election. The podcast then discusses the Electoral Count Reform Act, a law passed in 2022 to prevent attempts to overturn election results. They highlight the legal consequences faced by some pro-Trump electors from 2020 and the potential deterrent effect of criminal charges. Finally, the podcast discusses predictions for the 2024 election, including the possibility of a close race and the potential for a delayed announcement of the winner due to varying state laws regarding ballot counting.
Outlines
Voting in the US: A Road Trip and Beyond
This episode begins with a personal narrative of a road trip across the US, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and the opportunity to visit historical landmarks. The episode then transitions to a deeper analysis of voting patterns, exploring the rise of early voting and the changing landscape of voter registration.
National Voter Registration Day and Election Integrity
The podcast discusses National Voter Registration Day and the upcoming general election, highlighting the importance of early voting and the changing landscape of voting patterns. Concerns about the US Postal Service and its potential impact on voting by mail are addressed, with election officials raising concerns about mail handling procedures and delays.
The 2020 Election and its Aftermath
The podcast revisits the 2020 election and the "fake electors" scheme, where pro-Trump electors in seven states attempted to overturn the election results. They discuss the ongoing legal challenges and the potential for similar attempts in the 2024 election. The podcast then discusses the Electoral Count Reform Act, a law passed in 2022 to prevent attempts to overturn election results. They highlight the legal consequences faced by some pro-Trump electors from 2020 and the potential deterrent effect of criminal charges.
Predictions for the 2024 Election
The podcast discusses predictions for the 2024 election, including the possibility of a close race and the potential for a delayed announcement of the winner due to varying state laws regarding ballot counting.
Keywords
Early Voting
The practice of casting a ballot before Election Day, often through in-person voting at designated locations or by mail. It allows voters to avoid potential Election Day crowds and delays.
National Voter Registration Day
An annual event held in the United States to encourage voter registration. It aims to increase voter participation and ensure that eligible citizens are registered to vote.
Fake Electors Scheme
A controversial attempt by pro-Trump electors in 2020 to overturn the election results by submitting false certificates claiming Trump had won states he lost. This scheme was part of a broader effort to challenge the legitimacy of the election.
Electoral Count Reform Act
A law passed in 2022 to reform the process by which Congress counts electoral votes. It aims to prevent attempts to overturn election results and clarify the role of Congress in certifying the winner of the presidential election.
Election Integrity
The concept of ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and accurately, free from fraud or manipulation. It encompasses various aspects, including voter registration, ballot security, and the counting of votes.
Voting by Mail
A method of voting where voters receive ballots by mail and return them by mail or in person. It is a popular option for voters who cannot or prefer not to vote in person.
Poll Worker
Individuals who volunteer or are hired to staff polling places on Election Day. They assist voters with the registration process, provide information about voting procedures, and ensure the smooth operation of the polling place.
Election Officials
Individuals responsible for overseeing and administering elections at various levels, including state, county, and local. They manage voter registration, ballot printing, and the counting of votes.
Q&A
What are some of the key changes in voting patterns since the 2020 election?
There has been a trend towards more early voting, with almost all voters having the opportunity to vote early if they choose. Additionally, there is a prediction of more in-person voting on Election Day compared to 2020, likely due to the availability of vaccines.
What are the concerns surrounding the US Postal Service and its impact on voting by mail?
Election officials have raised concerns about delays in mail delivery and potential issues with handling mail-in ballots. The Postal Service is working to address these concerns, but voters are advised to return their ballots early to ensure timely delivery.
How are election officials and voters preparing for the potential for violence at polling places?
Election officials are aware of the charged atmosphere and are preparing for various scenarios, including potential violence. They are encouraging voters to be respectful and mindful of the environment, emphasizing that voting is a local transaction.
What are the legal consequences for those involved in the "fake electors" scheme?
Some pro-Trump electors from 2020 have faced criminal charges and civil lawsuits. The charges are intended to deter future attempts to overturn election results and send a message that there are legal consequences for such actions.
What are some of the key predictions for the 2024 election?
Many experts predict a close presidential race and expect a significant number of voters to cast ballots by mail. It is possible that the winner may not be declared on Election Day due to varying state laws regarding ballot counting.
Show Notes
This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, and voting correspondents Miles Parks & Hansi Lo Wang.
The podcast is produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy
Table of contents
United States
