What is “voter fraud” and how is it addressed?

Voter fraud is when a person knowingly and intentionally falsifies or makes a false statement when voting or registering to vote. It also includes when someone attempts to vote more than once, vote under a false name, or misrepresents themselves to be eligible to vote. In Virginia, the State Board of Elections works to ensure that every eligible voter is able to securely and confidentially cast a ballot. The Board also tracks voter fraud cases and attempts to address any issues that arise quickly and efficiently. The Board investigates all reports of voter fraud allegations. If they are able to confirm that voter fraud has occurred, the individual or individuals responsible face possible civil and criminal penalties. These penalties can range from a fine to a jail sentence, depending on the severity of the offense. To help prevent situations of voter fraud, Virginia requires that all voters must show a valid form of identification approved by the State Board of Elections prior to voting. This includes a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card. Accepting a photo ID is vital in helping to ensure that the person voting is who they claim to be. Virginia also has a Voter Bill of Rights that is available to all voters, which outlines the responsibilities of the voter to accurately cast their ballot and affirms that each vote cast by eligible voters is secure and protected.

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