Election Committee Debates Real-Time Voter Data Access
A heated debate took place at the Central Elections Committee on Sunday regarding the use of the 'Elector' system, which allows parties to receive real-time data on voter turnout during election day. The discussion was prompted by a Supreme Court decision that returned the issue to the committee for re-examination, specifically concerning the prohibition of transmitting voting data to parties and observers in real-time.
Sharp criticism was leveled against representatives of the Privacy Protection Authority and legal officials. Conversely, it was argued that since the use of such information has been clarified as illegal, the Elections Committee cannot approve it. Knesset members and political representatives contended that tracking turnout in real-time does not violate ballot secrecy but rather helps parties ensure the right to vote is exercised and maintains election integrity.
MK Amit Halevi questioned the Privacy Protection Authority's stance, asking why their firm opposition to the practice hadn't surfaced over the past decade. The authority's representative stated their position had always been clear but they hadn't been formally asked for their opinion. Eran Mirenberg, deputy chairman of the Elections Committee, emphasized that Supreme Court precedents indicate the committee cannot approve something deemed illegal, as it would contradict the law.
Ilana Bombach, representing the Likud party, argued that the legal advisor's initial response to Justice Solberg was to reject the petition, questioning the sudden disappearance of the right to vote and elect, and the desire to maximize voter turnout through incentives. MK Erez Malul called the decision to prevent real-time reporting a severe error that changes the rules mid-game, suggesting such a dramatic shift requires legislation or a public committee, not an administrative maneuver. He asserted that a reasonable person would not see a privacy violation, distinguishing between ballot secrecy and turnout transparency, and called for the restriction to be lifted.
Moshe Morgenstern, representing Degel HaTorah, shared experiences of low turnout in specific polling stations due to deliberate delays by poll workers, arguing that real-time tracking by parties is essential to prevent such issues and preserve election integrity. MK Simcha Rothman criticized the committee's potential action as changing the rules of the game without authority, comparing it to a committee chairman legislating personal preferences.
