Reps. Katko, Rice Lead Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen Election Systems, Combat Disinformation Campaigns Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Statement

In anticipation of New York State's June primary and the general election in November, U.S. Reps. John Katko (R, NY-24) and Kathleen Rice (D, NY-4) this week sent bipartisan letters to the New York State Board of Elections and U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) highlighting the unique cybersecurity threats election systems are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic and requesting additional information on steps being taken to preserve confidence in these systems.

With Governor Cuomo's announcement that all New Yorkers will be allowed to vote by absentee ballot in New York State's upcoming June primary, Reps. Katko and Rice highlighted the new vulnerabilities widespread use of mail-in ballots introduce to our election system. Additionally, during these uncertain times, disinformation campaigns have greater potential to create confusion and interfere with the integrity of our elections by promoting incorrect election dates, polling locations, and voting methods. To preserve the public's confidence in the upcoming primary, the lawmakers requested information regarding steps the New York State Board of Elections is taking to address potential security gaps and ensure accurate information is being distributed.

Additionally, with the general election in November on the horizon, the lawmakers wrote to the EAC, highlighting the importance of federal support and guidance as state and local officials modify their election processes during the current pandemic and requesting information on how prepared state and local election officials are to conduct secure and fair elections. Urging the EAC to act proactively , Reps. Katko and Rice stated their commitment to providing the EAC with the resources and tools they need to guide election officials, vendors, and the public through changes in the voting system necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"As we approach New York State's June primary and the general election in November, and with the COVID-19 pandemic posing new threats, today I joined Rep. Rice in leading a bipartisan effort to preserve confidence in our electoral system," said Rep. Katko. "The NYS Board of Elections and U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) must detail for the public the steps they are taking to protect against interreference and disinformation campaigns, as well as how they will identify and address potential threats to the upcoming elections. In my role as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection and Innovation, I remain focused on ensuring our state's and nation's elections are secure in 2020 and beyond."

"During this unprecedented time, we must take all precautions necessary to ensure our upcoming elections are conducted safely and securely," said Rep. Kathleen Rice. "Voting by mail, a clear necessity during this pandemic, can pose unique challenges, and that's why Rep. Katko and I are calling on the NYS Board of Elections and U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to immediately identify and take steps to defend against potential threats. Even in times of hardship, American democracy must remain intact and voters should have full confidence in the integrity of our elections."

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