Election Security and Audits

Election Security and Audits

Election audits are independent reviews that verify elections were conducted fairly and securely, ensuring ballots were properly counted and only eligible voters participated. In the U.S., states hold primary authority over elections under constitutional provisions giving states—not presidents—election power.

How Elections Are Audited

Officials perform audits post-Election Day, including risk-limiting audits that statistically sample ballots for 95% certainty, or full hand counts. These check voting systems, voter registration, and discrepancies in data. Federal agencies like the FBI may investigate under specific legal standards for already-audited elections, but cannot seize records without cause, per federalism laws.

Protecting Data and Addressing Threats

Voter data protections balance transparency and privacy, as outlined in policies on what’s public and protected. Modern challenges include foreign interference and state deepfake regulations. Even when courts reject claims, reinvestigations occur via judicial and policy processes.