Americans remain sharply divided along party lines over access to early and absentee voting, with Republicans far less likely than Democrats to support allowing voters to cast ballots without providing a reason, according to new research from the Pew Research Center.
A survey conducted in April found that 59% of Americans believe any voter should have the option to vote early or absentee without documenting a reason. However, support varies significantly by political affiliation. Among Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents, 81% support no-excuse early or absentee voting, while 66% of Republicans and Republican leaners say those voting methods should be limited to people with a documented reason for not voting in person on Election Day.
The findings show how attitudes have shifted since before the 2020 election. In 2018, a majority of Republicans — 57% — supported no-excuse absentee and early voting. Today, that figure stands at 34%. Democratic views have remained largely unchanged over the same period, with roughly eight in 10 Democrats continuing to support expanded voting access.
Support also varies depending on state voting laws. Americans living in states that automatically mail ballots to all voters are more likely to favor no-excuse absentee voting than those living in states that require voters to request a ballot or provide a specific reason for voting by mail.
The survey found notable demographic differences as well. Black Americans were among the strongest supporters of no-excuse absentee voting, with 76% favoring broader access. Younger adults, college graduates and people with postgraduate degrees were also more likely to support allowing voters to cast ballots early or absentee without documenting a reason.
Pew researchers also examined views on election security. A separate question asked whether making it easier to register and vote would make elections less secure. Overall, 58% of Americans said it would not, while 40% said it would. Democrats were substantially more likely than Republicans to believe expanded voting access would not negatively affect election security.
The survey was conducted April 20-26 among U.S. adults and reflects continuing debates over election administration, absentee voting and voter access as states prepare for future election cycles.
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