Examining U.S. Voting Rights and Campaign Financing: Key Trends in 2024

Overview of U.S. Voting Rights Changes

In recent years, voting laws across the United States have undergone significant modifications. Since 2020, nearly all states have adjusted their voting policies. While many states have expanded access, others have introduced restrictions that impact voters’ ability to participate.

Mail Voting Adjustments

Mail voting remains a contentious issue. While 20 states have made it easier to vote by mail, 11 have introduced stricter measures, including requirements for identification and limits on ballot drop boxes. For instance, Texas has criminalized sending mail ballots automatically to all registered voters, while Georgia has reduced the number of drop boxes available for voters, following their surge in use during the 2020 elections.

Voter Registration Hurdles

Voter registration continues to be a barrier in many states. Unlike some democracies, the U.S. does not have automatic voter registration nationwide. While 22 states have implemented this practice, others, like Arizona, have moved to restrict it, complicating the process for eligible voters.

Election Interference Laws

New laws have emerged that enable political interference in the electoral process. These include granting partisan poll watchers expanded roles and penalizing election administrators for non-compliance with strict new rules. Critics argue that these laws could undermine trust and fairness in the election process.

Campaign Financing in the 2024 Presidential Election

The 2024 election cycle has also highlighted distinct trends in campaign financing, reflecting how candidates like Joe Biden and Donald Trump are navigating their fundraising and spending strategies.

Fundraising Trends

Joe Biden leads in total campaign contributions, with nearly $195 million raised since January 2021, compared to Donald Trump’s $124 million. Individual contributions make up a significant portion of Biden’s funds, whereas Trump has seen higher contributions from external committees.

Spending Patterns

Both candidates have allocated substantial resources to media production, legal consultations, and grassroots activities. Biden's expenditures total nearly $100 million, while Trump has spent approximately $75 million. Despite their significant outlays, both campaigns retain cash reserves for the crucial final months of the race.

Future Implications

The combination of evolving voting laws and strategic campaign financing highlights the shifting dynamics of American elections. Efforts to expand or restrict voting access, coupled with the high stakes of campaign fundraising, underscore the importance of transparency and fairness as the nation heads toward the 2024 elections.