Threats to Democracy, Election Infrastructure, and Election Officials
In 2022, a global anti-democracy movement picked up steam, posing new threats to the systems and people that underpin American governance. As the movement has evolved, it has continued to find new structural weaknesses to exploit in order to disrupt elections and sow doubt in government. This panel discusses whether or not the U.S. has successfully defended itself from this movement and what weaknesses the movement will target in 2023 and 2024.
Key Quotes:
“The attack on democracy is not over, it is very likely to intensify over the next two years. We also have to recognize that we can win this battle against those trying to use lies to steal power.” - Jena Griswold
“My biggest concern for 2023 is that we do get tired of talking about threats to elections and we turn a blind eye to our state and local election administrators who have been shouldering American democracy through an incredibly tumultuous period... Their jobs are getting harder, they’re getting more complicated, and they’re coming at the expense of their own personal wellbeing and, at times, physical safety.” -Rachel Orey
Speakers:
Jena Griswold - Colorado Secretary of State
Mary McCord - Executive Director, the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP) and a Visiting Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center
Ranjana Natarajan - Senior Vice President, Programs, States United
Rachel Orey - Associate Director, BPC's Elections Project
Noah Praetz - Partner, The Elections Group