North Columbus News

The House of Representatives has passed the Confirmation of Congressional Observer Access (COCOA) Act. The bill, introduced last year by Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15), codifies the long-running Congressional Observer Program, which deploys designated congressional election observers to oversee federal election administration procedures.

Carey stated, "Every vote counts. This common-sense legislation will help give Americans confidence that the vote they cast is counted accurately, with fairness and integrity. We were proud to support this common-sense bill."

The Election Observer Program allows House of Representatives staffers, designated and credentialed by the Committee, to be on-site at election offices or facilities during close or difficult elections to observe procedures and ensure that the certified winner was chosen in a free and fair election.

Congressman Carey spoke on the House floor in support of the COCOA Act. The text of his remarks is as follows:

"Mister Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 6513, the Confirmation of Congressional Observer Access Act or COCOA Act of 2023.

It will provide a statutory citation for the long-running, nonpartisan Election Observer Program.

This program has trained and equipped congressional staff to serve as election observers during close election contests.

As we have seen, election contests can come down to just six votes.

This critical program adds an added layer of accountability for the American people during close contests.

Ensuring our elections are fair, factual, and accurate is of utmost importance.

I’ve been proud to work with my colleagues on the Committee on House Administration this Congress to strengthen our nation's elections.

This program is a strong election integrity measure that I encourage all of my colleagues to support.

I yield back the balance of my time."