In a recent government meeting, concerns over election integrity in Oregon were brought to the forefront, with multiple speakers advocating for significant reforms ahead of the 2024 general election. The discussions centered around a resolution highlighting alleged inaccuracies in the 2022 election, including claims of over 97,000 ineligible voters and more than 20,000 votes counted beyond the number of voters who participated.
The resolution, presented by Jill Brandt, emphasized the need for strict adherence to election laws, including accurate voter rolls, proof of citizenship for voters, and transparent auditing processes. Brandt and other speakers argued that the current system fails to uphold these standards, calling for a comprehensive review and reform of voting practices to ensure the integrity of future elections.
Key proposals included the implementation of hand-marked ballots, public access to voter roll certifications, and rigorous audits conducted by independent auditors. The resolution also stipulated that if discrepancies exceed 10% of the margin of victory, a new election should be held.
Several residents expressed frustration with the current voting system, particularly the shift to mail-in voting, which they believe undermines community engagement and accountability. They advocated for a return to precinct-based voting, where citizens could interact directly with election officials and verify their identities in person.
The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and accountability in the electoral process, with community members urging local officials to take immediate action to address these concerns. As the 2024 election approaches, the call for reform reflects a broader national conversation about election integrity and the mechanisms that govern it.