Why Does Mail-in Voting Favor Democrats?

Mail-in voting has become a contentious issue, particularly following the 2020 U.S. elections. While some argue that it is a prudent way to ensure access to voting during a pandemic, others believe it disproportionately benefits certain political parties, notably the Democrats. This article explores why mail-in voting may be perceived as favoring Democrats.

The Background of Mail-in Voting

The practice of voting by mail has a long history. It was first introduced in the United States in the early 20th century and was initially favored by elections officials to streamline the voting process. Over time, the convenience and accessibility of mail-in ballots have made them increasingly popular. However, the recent trend towards mail-in voting began in earnest in response to election-year shenanigans perpetrated by the Republican party, aimed at disenfranchising voters. These tactics included:

Reducing the number of voting machines in Democratic areas, leading to long lines. Challenging every voter's eligibility, often leading to unnecessary complications and delays. Deploying quasi-military personnel near election sites to intimidate voters.

Initially, these tactics were not prevalent in areas where I lived. However, the principle of ensuring fair and accessible voting methods for all citizens was paramount. These actions fueled the push for mail-in voting.

Republican Party's Backlash Against Mail-in Voting

The Republican party has been adept at wielding these tactics to their advantage for decades. Trump's lie about mail-in voting fraud and the subsequent advocacy by his base reinforced the Republican stance. Here are some reasons why:

The 2020 election marked a significant departure. Prior to that, both blue and red states predominantly used mail-in voting, which favored older voters who tend to vote for Republicans. Republicans spent years encouraging registered Republicans to vote by mail, as it eliminated many of the dirty tricks used on election day. Trump's refusal to acknowledge the biological WMD (coronavirus) and his pervasive denial of its global impact led to public health crises. Disregarding it and relying on baseless assertions contributed to the continued in-person voting among the Republican base, highlighting their resistance to change and their susceptibility to misinformation. Democrats, in contrast, responded pragmatically to the pandemic, largely voting by mail. This strategic move underscored their commitment to public health and accessibility.

The Impact of the 2020 Election

The 2020 election was a turning point. Trump's insistence on the mail-in voting fraud theory, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, significantly impacted public perception. Here’s how:

While Trumpers continued to attend rallies and participate in person, many Democrats voted by mail, aligning with public health guidelines and ensuring their votes counted. Trump's base, often referred to as his gullible followers, emphasized in-person voting to demonstrate their belief in his false claims, leading to higher death rates among attendees. This marked a clear divide, with the elections swinging heavily towards Democrats in states where mail-in voting was prevalent.

The Perception of Democrats and Republicans

The eventual outcome of the 2020 election highlighted the significant influence of distrust and misinformation on public opinion. Here's why:

Trump's base, for the most part, remained resistant to acknowledging their leader's failures and the chaos his administration created. They clung to the belief in mail-in voting fraud despite no credible evidence. In contrast, Democrats, who prioritized public health and practical solutions, were able to harness the benefits of mail-in voting.

Public perception of Republicans as the party that resists change and thrives on misinformation highlights a growing divide. This divide is not only political but also reflects a broader societal acceptance of their actions and rhetoric.