Congressman Eric Swalwell recently proposed a controversial idea during his campaign for California Governor, suggesting that residents should be able to vote by phone. Speaking on CNN’s The Story Is with Elex Michaelson, Swalwell argued that if people can manage their taxes, healthcare appointments, and banking online, then voting should be just as accessible.
This proposal has sparked significant debate, as many believe it distracts from more pressing issues facing California, such as the high cost of living, housing shortages, homelessness, and the ongoing challenges posed by wildfires and droughts. Critics argue that Swalwell’s focus on phone voting addresses a non-existent problem, as traditional voting methods are already widely accessible in the state.
Assessing Voting Access in California
Voting in California is relatively straightforward. There are numerous in-person voting locations, and for those who prefer to vote from home, mail-in ballots are sent automatically. The barriers to voting are minimal, often limited to having a pen or being able to return the ballot to the mailbox. Critics contend that the state’s current election system does not warrant the drastic changes proposed by Swalwell.
Despite his intentions, Swalwell’s rhetoric about “maxing out democracy” has raised eyebrows. Critics claim this kind of language is merely buzzword-laden rhetoric that fails to tackle the real issues at hand. The congressman stated, “I want us to be a blue state that doesn’t do just a little bit better than Georgia or Alabama when it comes to voting access.” This line has been interpreted by some as a call for unnecessary reforms rather than practical solutions.
Furthermore, Swalwell’s suggestion of voting by phone raises concerns about the state’s ability to manage a system that is already struggling with basic technological updates. California has faced challenges in implementing a reliable accounting system for over two decades, and issues persist with infrastructure projects such as the high-speed rail, which remains significantly over budget and behind schedule.
Real Problems Demand Real Solutions
The Secretary of State’s office has been attempting to modernize its campaign finance disclosure portal since 2016, highlighting the difficulties California faces even with minor technological advancements. As such, the feasibility of a phone voting system appears questionable, posing potential challenges and costs without guaranteeing any improvement in voting access.
Many argue that Swalwell’s proposal is a tactic to appeal to a progressive base rather than addressing genuine barriers to voting. In reality, those who abstain from voting in California often cite a lack of priority rather than logistical issues. The underlying reasons for this disengagement vary, but a significant factor seems to be a disconnect between voters and politicians who focus on superficial ideas rather than substantive change.
If Swalwell aims to increase voter participation, critics suggest he should focus on inspiring potential voters by addressing tangible issues rather than proposing solutions to problems that do not exist. Campaigning on real challenges and offering concrete solutions could foster greater engagement among the electorate.
In conclusion, while the idea of voting by phone may resonate with some as a modern convenience, it ultimately diverts attention from the pressing issues that California faces. Elected officials must concentrate on meaningful reforms that address the concerns of their constituents rather than chasing after fleeting trends in voting technology.
