Statement from Phillip C. Parrish, Candidate for Governor of Minnesota 2026
For Immediate Release
May 11, 2025
As a candidate for Governor of Minnesota in 2026, I am deeply concerned about the integrity of our electoral process, particularly the vulnerabilities in our electronic voting systems. Recent statements from Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, have brought to light critical evidence that these systems have been tampered with to manipulate election outcomes. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a documented reality. Historical simulations, such as the 2005 Black Box Voting exercise in Florida, demonstrated how experts could alter election results without leaving evidence. At the 2019 DEFCON hackers convention, researchers identified poor physical security and remote attack possibilities, and in 2023, Professor J. Halderman showed in a Georgia courtroom how a simple pen could hack a Dominion Voting System, exploiting a vulnerability that allowed malware to spread and potentially change votes.
These facts are incontrovertible. Yet, there are those who deny these concerns, dismissing them as conspiracy theories or unfounded fears. I must ask: who are these deniers, and what do they stand to gain? It is highly likely that those who downplay these vulnerabilities are the very people exploiting them. The complexity of fixing these issues, as noted by IT-ISAC executive director Scott Algeier, means that many systems remain exposed long after vulnerabilities are identified. The lack of standardization across voting machines creates a ‘diversity of strength and weakness,’ making the entire system vulnerable. When Georgia’s Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger chose not to address known vulnerabilities before the 2024 election, citing logistical challenges, it was a clear signal that some are willing to prioritize convenience over security.
The importance of chain of custody cannot be overstated. It ensures that voting machines and ballots are accounted for from preparation to finalization, preventing unauthorized access and maintaining the integrity of our elections. Encryption is equally critical, protecting vote secrecy and preventing manipulation during transmission and storage. These measures are not just technical necessities; they are the bedrock of a fair democracy.
As Governor, I will prioritize election security by advocating for a transition to paper ballots, which are less susceptible to hacking and provide a tangible record for audits. I will ensure robust chain of custody protocols and demand the implementation of state-of-the-art encryption to safeguard our votes. Those who oppose these measures, who deny the evidence of vulnerabilities, are not just ignoring the problem—they are complicit in undermining our democracy. Their denial is a smokescreen for their exploitation.
Minnesota deserves an election system we can trust. I call on all Minnesotans to join me in demanding transparency, accountability, and security in our elections. Together, we can ensure that every vote counts and that our voices are heard without interference. The future of our state depends on it.”
Phillip C. Parrish
Candidate for Governor of Minnesota 2026
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