As policy makers consider a place for online voting, it is important to create a balance in order to think critically about electoral integrity so that there is enough public confidence in the election outcomes. .
Over the last decade, we have seen a decline in overall state voter turn-out with only about 35% of our citizens turning out to vote at the polls. One of the benefits to online voting is larger voter turnouts. A study conducted at the University of North Carolina claims that when citizens have the opportunity to vote from their homes or offices, they may be more likely to take a 5 minute break from their day to vote. This would make voting easier and relatively available anywhere in there is internet access, including our Military overseas, and could improve voter turnouts. In addition, the same study suggested that the major reason why eligible voters dont turn out is due to prior schedule conflicts, difficulty in taking time off from their jobs, or even long lines and the hassle of driving to the polls. Online voting would eliminate some of these problems by allowing people to vote when its convenient and from the comfort of their homes. .
One rationale for online voting is found in the convenience it brings to the voting experience. Given the delivery and return time for absentee ballot, the online potion could enhance voting convenience for populations traditionally served by absentee. These include those who are unable to vote on Election Day, military overseas, others with scheduling conflicts, people with disabilities, people residing in remote communities. People with disabilities may prefer online voting over traditional, in-person voting or voting with the assistance of technology in the voting place. This technological age includes advanced computer technologies that make available to assist with mobility, hearing, and visual impairments as well as learning disabilities.