David Becker and Chris Krebs appeared on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” to discuss election security and voter awareness leading up to the 2024 election. Becker, the executive director of the Center of Election Innovation and Research, highlighted concerns about voters being disenfranchised due to mail-in ballots being returned as undeliverable at higher rates. He stressed the importance of voters making a plan for voting, including voting early in person or via mail, and utilizing drop boxes or election offices for ballot returns to avoid issues with the Postal Service.
They discussed National Voter Registration Day, which encourages eligible voters to register and check their registration status. Krebs, the former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, emphasized the importance of seeking information from trusted sources, especially when faced with misinformation on social media platforms. He urged individuals to verify information with local election officials or trusted outlets and to listen to public officials and fact-check claims before spreading them.
The conversation shifted to the challenges of navigating the information environment, particularly in relation to rumors and disinformation. Krebs highlighted the need for personal resilience in the face of false claims, advising individuals to verify information with authoritative sources such as state election officials. Becker commended election officials for their strength and resilience in the face of pressure and disinformation, urging support for them and encouraging individuals to volunteer as poll workers to gain a better understanding of the secure election process.
They also addressed foreign interference in the upcoming election, with Krebs noting past efforts by countries like Iran and Russia to meddle in U.S. elections. He warned that such efforts are likely part of a larger strategy and urged continued vigilance from the government to combat foreign interference. Becker debunked claims about non-citizens voting in federal elections, stating that the protections in place are effective and noting that instances of non-citizens voting are extremely rare. He emphasized the importance of registering to vote and reiterated that non-citizens who attempt to vote will face legal consequences.
As the discussion concluded, both Becker and Krebs underscored the importance of staying informed, fact-checking information, and supporting election officials. They highlighted the need for individuals to make a plan for voting, utilize trusted sources for information, and remain vigilant against disinformation and foreign interference leading up to the election. The conversation served as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities associated with ensuring the integrity and security of the electoral process.
