NYC Explores Blockchain in Elections to Combat Voter Fraud
A novel approach to election integrity gains traction in New York adn beyond.
In a move that could revolutionize election security, New York Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (D-33) has introduced Assembly Bill A7716, proposing the integration of blockchain technology into the state’s electoral system. The bill aims to combat voter fraud and bolster public trust in election outcomes, addressing a concern that has resonated deeply with voters across the United states.
The proposed legislation mandates the new York State Board of Elections to conduct an in-depth study on the feasibility and implications of using blockchain technology to safeguard election results and voter records.this study would require a thorough report to be submitted to Governor Kathy Hochul and the state assembly, outlining both the potential benefits and inherent risks of implementing blockchain in the election process.
Assemblyman Vanel emphasizes the need for collaboration and knowledge sharing, stating that the bill requires the board to:
Engage with other states and countries that have implemented the technology to secure their democracy and to consult industry leaders in blockchain, cybersecurity, voter fraud and electoral technology.
Assembly Bill A7716
this collaborative approach is crucial, as it allows New York to learn from both the successes and failures of other jurisdictions that have ventured into blockchain-based voting systems.
Blockchain’s Potential: Immutable, Auditable, and Uncensored Truth?
Vanel’s bill provides flexibility by allowing the use of both public and private, permissioned blockchains, regardless of whether they employ tokenomics. This adaptability is key,as it allows the state to tailor its blockchain solution to meet specific security and privacy requirements.
the assemblyman is a strong advocate for the technology’s potential, believing that blockchain will provide:
Immutable, auditable and uncensored truth.
Assemblyman Clyde Vanel
However, experts caution that while blockchain offers significant advantages, it is not a silver bullet.Issues such as the “51% attack,” where a single entity controls a majority of the network’s computing power,could compromise the integrity of the system. Additionally, ensuring accessibility for all voters, regardless of their technological literacy, remains a critical challenge.
Legislative Hurdles and the Road Ahead
Assembly Bill A7716 has been submitted to the Election Law Committee, where it will undergo rigorous debate and a critical vote. If it garners majority support, the bill will proceed to the Assembly floor, then to the Senate, before ultimately reaching Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval. The legislative process is complex and uncertain, but passage of this bill could set a precedent for other states to follow.
This isn’t Vanel’s first foray into blockchain legislation. Just a month prior, he introduced Bill A06515, aimed at imposing stringent penalties on “crypto” founders involved in rug pulls, highlighting his commitment to both innovation and consumer protection in the digital asset space. The previous year saw investors lose over $500 million to rug pulls, according to a report by Merkle Science, underscoring the urgency of addressing these fraudulent schemes.
National Momentum: Blockchain and Digital Assets on the Rise
New York’s exploration of blockchain in elections aligns with a broader national trend towards embracing blockchain technology and digital assets. The U.S. has been a leader in this sector, and recent policy changes, spurred in part by Donald Trump’s election, have further accelerated its growth. While initial benefits were seen in areas like memecoins, the positive impact is now extending to various facets of the industry.
States are increasingly enacting blockchain-friendly regulations. Utah, for example, recently passed HB230, signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox, which protects the rights of residents to operate blockchain nodes, conduct digital payments, and utilize self-hosted wallets.
Global Perspectives: Malaysia and Beyond
The push for blockchain integration in elections extends beyond U.S. borders. In Malaysia,the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR),a major political party led by the Prime Minister,has become the first in the country to adopt blockchain technology for its internal elections.
According to Fuziah Salleh, the party’s secretary-general, blockchain will be used at both regional and national levels to enhance transparency and security. the voting process incorporates a two-step verification system:
- Electronic ‘know your customer’ (eKYC) verification to confirm the identity of party members.
- E-voting using blockchain technology, where each registered voter’s ID is encrypted and unique.
Zaliha Mustafa, who heads the party’s Elections Committee, commented:
This step makes PKR the first political party in Malaysia to implement a comprehensive technological approach in the internal democratic process. It strengthens our role as a pioneer of progressive political reforms based on technology.
Zaliha Mustafa, Head of PKR’s Elections Committee
While Malaysia is experimenting with blockchain in internal elections, other nations like Romania have taken bolder steps, using blockchain in its presidential elections. the country anchored voters’ digital fingerprints on a network built on the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure (EBSI).
Concerns and Counterarguments
Despite the potential benefits, the use of blockchain in elections is not without its critics. Concerns have been raised about the security of blockchain systems, the potential for manipulation, and the accessibility of the technology for all voters. Some experts argue that the complexity of blockchain could create barriers to participation, particularly for elderly or low-income voters who may not have access to the necessary technology or the technical skills to use it.
Another concern is the potential for a “51% attack,” where a single entity controls a majority of the network’s computing power, possibly allowing them to manipulate the election results. While blockchain technology is generally considered secure, it is not invulnerable to attack.
Proponents of blockchain voting argue that these concerns can be addressed through careful planning and implementation. For example, they suggest using a hybrid voting system that combines blockchain technology with customary paper ballots, allowing voters to verify their votes and providing a backup in case of technical problems. They also emphasize the importance of educating voters about the technology and providing them with the support they need to participate.
The Future of Elections: A Balanced Approach
As New York and other states explore the use of blockchain in elections,it is indeed vital to take a balanced approach,carefully weighing the potential benefits and risks. While blockchain technology has the potential to enhance election security and transparency, it is not a panacea. It is essential to address the concerns raised by critics and to ensure that any implementation of blockchain voting is secure, accessible, and obvious.
Ultimately, the goal is to create an election system that is fair, accurate, and trusted by all voters. Blockchain technology may play a role in achieving this goal, but it is indeed just one tool among many. A comprehensive approach is needed, one that combines technology with traditional safeguards to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.
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