Several California Republicans introduced a proposal to Congress on Wednesday that would require votes to be counted faster in federal elections.
The bill, titled the Election Results Accountability Act, was introduced by Representatives David Valadao (R–Hanford), Vince Fong (R–Bakersfield), Tom McClintock (R–Elk Grove), Jay Obernolte (R–Hesperia), Ken Calvert (R–Corona), Kevin Kiley (R–Rocklin) and Darrell Issa (R–Bonsall).
The big picture: The Election Results Accountability Act would amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require 90% of ballots cast in federal elections to be counted and publicly reported within 72 hours of polls closing.
- It would also require states to certify the final election results within two weeks of election day.
- The bill includes exceptions for circumstances that are out of a state’s control, such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, cyberattacks or technical failures. Recounts and the first-time implementation of new election procedures would also be exempt.
- States that fail to comply could be denied federal election funds unless they submit a plan to the federal government to correct the issue.
Driving the news: California has had a lengthy election counting process since ballots were mailed out to all voters in the state in 2020.
- Since California voters have an opportunity to return their ballots by mail, ballots are counted in the weeks following election day.
- Some critical House races have gone weeks before a result is known, including in past Valadao races and last year when Rep. Adam Gray (D–Merced) ousted former Rep. John Duarte (R–Modesto) in the 13th district.
What they’re saying: “In California it can take weeks to certify election results, which undermines the public trust necessary for free and fair elections,” Valadao said. “Californians – and all Americans – deserve to know the results of their elections in a timely and transparent manner. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill which will help restore some confidence in our democratic process.”
- Obernolte said the public’s trust in the electoral system has eroded with some states taking over a month to certify last November’s results.
- “Timely certification of federal election results is not only critical for public confidence but also essential for ensuring that newly elected members can fully participate in key activities like leadership elections and committee assignments,” Obernolte said.
- Fong added, “Establishing clear procedures for the timely and transparent certification of federal election results is long overdue. Americans deserve to have confidence in the election process that defines our country, which is why I am proud to support this legislation. For us in California, this is critically important.”
