Letter to the Editor - The Truth About Mail-In Ballots from Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi

Lately, I've been hearing a growing wave of concern from voters about mail-in ballots (VBMs): how they're sent out, how they're counted, and whether they're truly secure.

This concern isn't unfounded - it's being fueled by a flood of misinformation that's threatening to undermine the confidence in one of the most secure and accessible voting methods we have.

It's time to set the record straight.

Mail-in ballots, long known as absentee ballots, have evolved significantly over the years. In New Jersey, for example, voters no longer need to provide a reason to vote by mail. What was once a highly restrictive process-only available to those in the hospital or overseas, and not even extended to pregnant women-is now an accessible option for all registered voters.

This change is especially critical for two of the largest and most influential voting blocs in our country: university students and senior citizens. Many students attend college far from their registered voting districts, and many seniors prefer the safety and convenience of voting from home. For both groups, mail-in ballots provide a secure, reliable, and accessible means to make their voices heard-no matter where they are.

Importantly, the mail-in ballot process is highly regulated to safeguard against fraud. Voters must fill out a formal application and sign it. That signature is then carefully compared to the one on file in the statewide registration database. Only if the signatures match is a ballot issued. If there's a mismatch, voters must provide verified identification before receiving a ballot.

Deadlines matter: For the November 4th General Election, the deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot in New Jersey is Tuesday, October 28th. To be counted, all vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by the close of Election Day. Ballots are not counted until Election Day, and results are not released until after polls close, ensuring fairness for all voters-whether they vote early, by mail, or in person.

Allegations of widespread voter fraud are not supported by evidence. Investigations by reputable and diverse sources-including the Brennan Center, the Republican National Lawyers Association, the Government Accountability Office, and top universities like Arizona State and Columbia-have concluded that voter fraud is exceedingly rare. Most claims turn out to be clerical errors or unfounded accusations following close contests.

As a former president of a national organization of election officers, I can personally vouch for the integrity, dedication, and professionalism of those who administer our elections. The system is built on transparency, accountability, and fairness.

Mail-in ballots remain a secure, responsible, and effective way to vote-Let's ensure every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate fully in our democracy without fear, misinformation, or unnecessary barriers.