We will discuss election fraud in terms of fraud involving the election process. Election fraud can involve unlawful acts by election officials or acts done by others that threaten the integrity (reliability and trustworthiness) of the election process.
Election officials, whether at the local or state level, carry the heavy responsibility of ensuring elections are run fairly and accurately. The laws covering election administration reflect this responsibility—covering everything from how a candidate gets on the ballot to duties of poll workers, counting of ballots, and operating voting machines. Here are just some of the election fraud crimes covered in state laws.
It’s unlawful for an election official to knowingly or intentionally:
Similar to voter fraud, the penalties for fraud by an election official vary. Crimes reflecting neglect in an official's duties tend to fall under the category of misdemeanors, whereas crimes reflecting corruption or intentional misconduct can carry serious felony penalties.
Individuals outside the election process can face serious penalties if they commit acts that threaten the integrity of the election process. Most states make it a crime to:
Penalties for the above crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the seriousness of the offense. Felony penalties typically apply when conduct involves corruption, bribery, or threats of harm.
