Digital Voting and Democratic Culture: Examining How Technology Shapes Electoral Participation in the United States

Abstract

This paper investigates the feasibility, efficiency, and broader sociocultural implications of adopting electronic voting (e-voting) as the sole legal method for presidential elections in the United States. While e-voting is frequently promoted as a modern solution for enhancing electoral accessibility and administrative convenience, its complete replacement of traditional voting methods raises complex questions about security, trust, and democratic participation. This study evaluates whether e-voting systems are sufficiently reliable to function as the exclusive mode of voting by examining their technical performance, susceptibility to cyberthreats, and the institutional capacity required for nationwide implementation. To contextualize the U.S. experience, the paper also reviews international cases such as Estonia, Brazil, and Switzerland, where e-voting has been adopted in varying forms, highlighting lessons relevant to digital governance and public confidence. Additionally, the study analyzes public attitudes toward e-voting, drawing on national surveys and opinion polls, and explores trends in electronic voter participation over recent election cycles. By synthesizing empirical evidence, comparative insights, and social perspectives, the paper offers a critical assessment of whether transitioning to a fully digital voting system could strengthen or undermine democratic engagement in the digital age.