Internet Voting (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Sept. 23, 2003 |
| Report Number |
RS20639 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Kevin Coleman, Government and Finance Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
Among the many issues in the ongoing national discussion about the Internet is its use in the
voting
process. Because voting determines who runs the government and entails two absolute requirements
-- the secret ballot and security from fraud -- the stakes are higher than for many other transactions
routinely conducted via the Internet. Public confidence about Internet security is increasing, but
many feel that voting online requires a degree of security from fraud beyond the current standard for
everyday Internet use. The National Defense Authorization Act for FY2002 and the Help America
Vote Act of 2002 included provisions to extend a pilot project for Internet voting on a limited basis
and to conduct an in-depth study for Congress on the feasibility of Internet voting on a national basis.
Aside from voting issues, observers often refer to a "digital divide" that exists between those
who have access to computers and the Internet (and the skills to use it) and those who do not. While
Internet access is increasing, estimates show that those with higher incomes and education levels are
more likely to have Internet access, and that black and Hispanic access lags behind that of whites.
Also part of the debate are issues concerning political tradition, public confidence in Internet voting,
and equal access to the ballot. Proponents of Internet voting suggest it could increase turnout,
particularly among younger voters who are familiar with Internet technology. In the meantime,
several experiments with Internet voting in public elections took place in the 2000 election year, and
more are likely in the future as the technology for online voting evolves. This report will be updated
to reflect new developments.
