The House of Representatives is kicking off a new phase of its Election Observer Program, supposedly in the name of “transparency” as the battle for control of Congress heats up. The focus this time around? Making sure things are on the up and up at the polls, especially in those tight races where every vote could make or break the outcome. Of course, we all know how much “transparency” can mean different things to different people, especially when there’s political power on the line.
Representative Bryan Steil (R-WI), Chair of the House Committee on Administration, is pretty pumped about rolling this out as Election Day draws near. “We’re excited to really ramp the program up, roll it out, as we come into the final eight weeks before the election,” Steil said. The program, in place for several election cycles now, allows congressional staffers to volunteer as poll watchers—trained and ready to swoop into districts outside their own to keep an eye on things. Sure, it’s all part of a bigger effort to “maintain election security,” which Steil seems to have made his personal mission. He’s framing it as another piece of the puzzle to ensure that elections are fair and that Americans can actually trust the results.
Steil also stressed the importance of making sure candidates from both parties know about the program—because nothing says nonpartisan like ensuring both sides get their equal share of “oversight.” While this program has seen participation from both Republicans and Democrats in the past, the debate around election integrity has grown a lot more politically charged. It’s no secret that the issue of fair elections has become a minefield, and everyone’s looking over their shoulder, ready to point fingers.
But the Election Observer Program isn’t the only thing on Steil’s mind. He’s taken issue with a June executive order from Joe Biden aimed at expanding voter access using federal resources. According to Steil, the Biden-Harris administration has been a little too secretive for his liking. He’s raised questions about what he sees as a potential push for noncitizen voting, claiming the administration isn’t being as upfront as they should be. Steil’s concern is clear: this isn’t just about getting more people to vote, it’s about who exactly is being encouraged to show up at the polls.
In the end, while the Election Observer Program might look like a well-intentioned effort to keep elections clean, you can bet there will be plenty of eyes watching the watchers. As election integrity becomes an even hotter topic, it’s hard not to wonder how much of this is truly about fairness and how much is just another round of political gamesmanship. Either way, the stakes are high, and both parties are gearing up for a fight.
