Return Elections to the Voter Secure and transparent elections are essential for pursuing government accountability and increasing voter participation. The electorate must trust the elections process and have confidence that their vote is counted toward their intended recipient. Wyoming must return elections to the voter.
The Presidential election of 2020 highlighted many vulnerabilities in our elections and caused many across our nation to distrust the process and excuse themselves from further participation. Even across Wyoming, we have witnessed improper use and implementation of the standing ESS voting system, processes, and procedures.
To regain the trust of the people in our elections, dedicated efforts in election integrity, security, and transparency must be paramount. Voters must be properly credentialed and bear proof of United States citizenship and Wyoming residency. Existing election laws must be followed and enforced to ensure that all 23 Wyoming counties are compliant with standing governing regulations. (In the 2024 election process all 23 Wyoming counties failed the Accuracy tests). All votes should be cast on paper ballots and all paper ballots should be hand tabulated; the exception being for those who are handicapped and/or physically impaired. At a minimum, hand tabulation audits should be allowed for recount, system failure, contested elections, etc. and to compare the original cast paper ballot with the ESS computer image. Runoff elections should be implemented at all levels of government to ensure that the best candidates are elected with a majority party vote to compete in the general elections. State judicial nominees should be confirmed by the Wyoming Senate instead of gubernatorial appointment thereby giving the people greater input on judgeships.
The responsibility for gaining the people’s trust lies with the government from the county clerks to the Governor’s office. Ensuring secure and transparent elections is essential for maintaining the strength and resilience of our Representative Republic and leading the nation in voter participation.