The NPR Politics Podcast How Armed Observers And Felony Convictions May Shape Ballot Access
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Oct 27, 2022 In this discussion, Ben Giles, a KJZZ reporter from Arizona, sheds light on alarming voter intimidation tactics, particularly involving armed observers at ballot drop boxes. He reveals how such actions could discourage voters and complicate the already murky legal landscape of election monitoring. The conversation also dives into the staggering impact of felony convictions on voting rights, with millions affected and uneven laws across states adding to the confusion. This insightful dialogue raises critical questions about access to democracy.
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Dropbox Monitoring in Arizona
- In Arizona, groups are monitoring ballot drop boxes, sometimes armed, filming voters, and even following them.
- This has led to voter intimidation complaints, but the legality of these actions remains a gray area.
Legal Gray Area of Voter Intimidation
- While a 75-foot limit exists between monitors and drop boxes, the line between observation and intimidation is unclear.
- Law enforcement is grappling with when filming voters becomes voter intimidation.
Voter Intimidation Beyond Arizona
- Voter intimidation tactics extend beyond Arizona, with groups challenging voter registrations based on door-knocking inquiries.
- This harassment occurs even in states where 2020 election results weren't close, causing distress before voting begins.