Voter ID and the Problems of the 2020 Elections | RealClearPolitics

RealClearPolitics

by Peter Navarro, Washington Times

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The 2020 elections saw intense debates over voter ID laws and their impact on election integrity. Peter Navarro’s article in *RealClearPolitics* explores these issues, highlighting concerns about voter suppression and the challenges of ensuring fair elections. Navarro argues that while voter ID requirements are meant to safeguard against fraud, they can unintentionally disenfranchise voters, particularly those from marginalized communities. He points to examples like Georgia’s flawed mail-in ballot process during the 2020 election as evidence of systemic problems that undermine public trust in the electoral system. The article delves into the historical context of voter ID laws, tracing their evolution and implementation over the years. Navarro emphasizes that these policies were often rolled out without adequate infrastructure to support them, leading to long lines, confusion, and delays at polling stations. He also discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic compounded these challenges, pushing states to expand mail-in voting options but without consistent safeguards. This created opportunities for fraud, according to Navarro, while critics argue that such claims are overstated and used to justify restrictive voting measures. Ultimately, Navarro’s piece underscores the delicate balance between ensuring election integrity and protecting voters’ rights. He calls for a bipartisan approach to reform voter ID laws, suggesting that both sides need to prioritize solutions that enhance security without suppressing legitimate votes. The article highlights why this issue matters: it directly impacts trust in democratic institutions and could shape future voter behavior. As Navarro concludes, the debate over voter ID is not just about past elections but also about ensuring a fair and reliable electoral process for years to come.

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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/22/2026