ICE, Voter Intimidation, and the Future of the Ballot with Rebekah Caruthers

In this episode of The Electorette, Jen Taylor-Skinner speaks with Rebekah Caruthers, President and CEO of the Fair Elections Center, about growing concerns around voter intimidation and the potential role of federal agencies like ICE at or near polling places. They discuss how proposed laws like the SAVE Act could change voter registration requirements, the broader strategy behind voter suppression efforts, and why some Americans are increasingly anxious about voting. Caruthers also puts this moment into historical perspective, reminding us that the fight over voting rights is not new—and that Americans have defended the ballot through some of the most difficult periods in the nation’s history. Chapter Timestamps 00:00 — The State of American Democracy Jen and Rebekah begin by taking the temperature of democracy in the United States, discussing how current political rhetoric and policy decisions are shaping the country’s democratic institutions. 02:30 — A Long History of Fighting for Voting Rights Rebekah reflects on historical struggles for democracy, including the work of Ida B. Wells and the civil rights movement, and explains why understanding this history is essential to navigating today’s challenges. 06:00 — ICE, Voter Intimidation, and the Politics of Fear The conversation turns to concerns about federal law enforcement being deployed near polling places and how intimidation—real or perceived—can discourage people from exercising their right to vote. 07:30 — The SAVE Act and New Voting Restrictions Rebekah breaks down the SAVE Act and similar legislation, explaining how proof-of-citizenship requirements and stricter ID laws could make voter registration significantly harder for millions of Americans. 11:30 — Barriers to Registration and Voting Access From criminal penalties for election workers to reduced early voting and limited ballot drop boxes, the discussion explores how multiple layers of policy changes can collectively restrict access to the ballot. 17:00 — What Voters Can Do Right Now Rebekah offers practical advice for voters, including checking registration regularly, voting early when possible, and ensuring ballots are properly received and counted. 20:00 — Disinformation and Targeting Black Voters The episode examines how misinformation campaigns often target Black communities and why voter suppression historically focuses on communities whose turnout can shift political outcomes. 24:00 — Elections in Times of Crisis Rebekah puts current fears about voting into historical perspective, reminding listeners that the United States has successfully held elections through wars, national crises, and economic collapse. 27:00 — Hope, Resistance, and the Future of the Vote The conversation closes with reflections on hope, civic participation, and why Americans continue to fight for their right to vote—even in difficult political moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices