Letter to the Editor: Security and integrity of our election system is fundamental

It should go without saying that the security and integrity of our election system is fundamental to our republic. That’s why it has been so concerning to see the federal government’s lack of attention on the security, funding, and integrity of our elections as we enter one of the most pivotal election years in recent history. Election security funds continue to decline, despite the need we are seeing in the states – and the clear and present threat from overseas and outside adversaries, who are increasingly turning their attention toward cyber-attacks on our election systems.

While the management and oversight of elections must remain in the hands of state and local election officials, federal funding is needed. During the Trump administration, election security funding levels were around $400 million annually. However, last year, that figure was cut down to just $75 million, dealing a significant blow to election integrity and security efforts across the country. And this year, Congress passed a last-minute spending package that includes a paltry $55 million for election security.

As a conservative, I’m no fan of federal spending, but the integrity and security of our elections is paramount, especially in this crucial election year. The Biden administration has not done enough to promote election security as President Trump’s administration did, and that comes at a major risk. We must make sure all polling locations are properly staffed, trained, and have the proper technology and security measures to ensure we keep the integrity of our elections.

As we get closer to November, Congress and the Biden administration must do more to commit to election security for the sake of our current and future elections, just as the Trump administration and Iowa’s leaders including Gov. Reynolds and Secretary of State, Paul Pate have.

Thad Nearmyer

Monroe