Becker sees post-election disputes as bigger threat than voting day chaos

Indianapolis, Ind. (Central Indiana Herald), David Becker, a former Justice Department voting rights lawyer, says the primary risk facing American elections is not the act of voting itself, but the aftermath. Becker, who founded the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation and Research, spoke on NPR's Morning Edition about the November 3 midterm elections. He noted that nearly 60 million Americans have already cast ballots with minimal issues.

Becker's comments arrive as voting rights and immigrant advocacy groups prepare for possible federal agent presence near polling places. The Trump administration has stated it has no plans to deploy agents, yet one Arizona organization has trained over 100 community members to watch for irregularities outside voting sites.

The expert pointed to federal law 18 U.S.C. 592, which limits the deployment of armed personnel near polling places. Violations can result in up to five years in prison and disqualification from federal office. Becker said courts would step in if immigration agents or troops were placed unlawfully.

He advised against overreaction from news media and online speculation. Becker warned that images of officers near polls, without context, could cause alarm and discourage voters. Election officials have prepared for routine issues like traffic and weather, and most voters are unlikely to face long waits.

Becker's main concern is the reaction following the close of polls. "I think we expect to hear statements from losing candidates and losing parties that the election was rigged when we know, of course, that our elections are secure and verified," Becker said.

The former lawyer discussed what voters might see on Election Day and why he worries more about the period after the votes are counted.