In a world where technology is constantly evolving, it is no surprise that voting is also being revolutionized. Bradley Tusk, a venture capitalist, political strategist, and philanthropist, has been working on a new software to change the way people vote in the United States. His new book, Vote With Your Phone, argues that mobile voting could completely change elections.
Tusk’s interest in increasing voter turnout stems from his years in the public sector, serving as the deputy governor of Illinois and former campaign manager for NYC mayor Mike Bloomberg. In 2018, he bankrolled an effort allowing West Virginians serving overseas to cast their midterm ballots through a smartphone app. This was the first time US citizens ever voted online in a federal election.
According to Tusk, the user experience for the mobile voting app would be simple. Voters would access the app on their phones, where they would be asked to confirm their registration and identity. This would be done through multifactor authentication, such as a code sent to their phone, and biometric screening, like facial recognition. Once verified, the ballot would appear on their screen.
Tusk believes that mobile voting has the potential to increase voter turnout, especially in down-ballot races. However, he acknowledges that selling people on the idea, especially legislators, is a challenge. This is why he wrote his book, to make the case for why mobile voting is the future of democracy.
Makena Kelly spoke with Bradley Tusk about his vision for mobile voting and how he plans to make it a reality. The full interview provides insight into the potential of mobile voting and the challenges that come with implementing it.