On Election Day, most voting locations operate smoothly, but there have been instances of notable issues in the past that warrant attention. One significant concern, particularly relevant this year with a series of severe hurricanes impacting the southeast, is the influence of weather and other environmental factors on voter turnout. For instance, during the 2024 Republican primaries, a blizzard in Iowa raised concerns about its potential impact on voter participation. Similarly, in 2020, the looming threat of the coronavirus pandemic prompted close monitoring of its potential effect on voter turnout. Studies have shown that adverse weather conditions can deter less committed voters from casting their ballots.
Another emerging trend in recent years is the occurrence of protests outside polling locations. While all states have laws prohibiting electioneering and political activities in proximity to polling sites, these regulations have limitations. During the 2020 election, supporters of then-President Trump staged a protest outside a polling location in Virginia. Furthermore, armed protestors have been observed outside vote counting facilities in the aftermath of the election, underscoring the potential for disruptions and intimidation.
