Leadership Center for Attorney General Studies

Access to the ballot box is one of the most important rights in a functioning democracy.

Voting is the most fundamental and important activity of our democracy. It empowers citizens to make their voices heard, to hold elected officials accountable, and to set the policy agenda for their communities and states. Voting empowers marginalized communities and communities of color who have historically been left out of politics and government.

Attorneys general protect the rights of voters and the integrity of elections. They enforce state laws to protect voters from interference, discrimination, and intimidation. They advocate for policies and procedures to safeguard election integrity and security. During the COVID-19 pandemic, attorneys general have worked to make sure voters can safely participate in elections and helped expand access to voting options, such as mail-in voting. Attorneys general fight voter suppression efforts by bringing legal actions against groups and individuals that intimidate voters or spread disinformation.