Preparing for Elections During a Pandemic

In this video conversation, RAND's Jennifer Kavanagh and Quentin Hodgson discuss the unique voting challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They share findings from their research to understand how new voting policies might affect public health and safety, as well as election integrity, access, and logistics. Brandon Baker hosts.

Learn More

COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights from RAND
Apr 10, 2020

RAND research and expertise can inform immediate policy responses to address the disastrous effects of COVID-19—and help aid in recovery long after the disease stops spreading.
Are States Ready for a COVID-19 Election?
Aug 5, 2020

Is there automatic voter registration? Can citizens vote by mail without an excuse? Are there options to cast ballots early? Answering questions such as these can help determine how prepared states are to conduct elections safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Voting in a Pandemic: What Americans Think About Safety, Election Integrity, and Preparedness
Aug 27, 2020
Jennifer Kavanagh, C. Ben Gibson, et al.

As states prepare to conduct elections during the COVID-19 crisis, what are voters' perceptions about safety, election integrity, and the readiness of local officials? And how might these perceptions affect voter turnout in November?
Options for Ensuring Safe Elections Amid COVID-19
Aug 5, 2020
Quentin E. Hodgson @QHodgson, Jennifer Kavanagh, et al.

The pandemic poses a serious threat to state election plans in 2020. There is still time for states to make policy changes, but those changes come with potential risks to public safety, and to election integrity, access, and logistics.
Keep Voters Healthy. Keep Elections Secure. Can the U.S. Do Both?
Jun 22, 2020
Quentin E. Hodgson @QHodgson, Jennifer Kavanagh

U.S. adversaries have stepped up cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. The United States should expect these foes to take advantage of the logistical challenges of voting in a COVID-19 world to redouble their efforts against elections.