Turning Point USA app exposes voter targets to public users

Turning Point USA released a mobile application that allows any user to view a list of specific voters the conservative group intends to contact. The tool, called TPAction, is available on both Google Play and the App Store. It functions as a digital guide for volunteers tasked with ensuring supporters return their mail-in ballots.

Tyler Bowyer, the chief operating officer of the organization, explained the app's primary function. He stated that it identifies individuals the group wants to vote. When asked on social media how the organization selects these specific targets, Bowyer responded, "Why would I tell you that?" He added, "I mean, it is basic logic who would determine our targets." He did not provide further details on the selection criteria.

Accessing the data requires only a name, address, and phone number to create an account. Users do not need to be affiliated with a campaign or a specific list. Once signed in, users can select an option to chase ballots. This feature generates a list of voters near the user's current location.

The list displays specific details for each targeted individual. Information includes full names, street addresses, and whether the person has already returned an early ballot. The app also reveals the target's gender, age, and political party affiliation. It indicates if the person is on the early voting list, meaning they requested a ballot by mail.

The geographic scope of the data is precise. The map shows targets within a radius of a few hundred yards from the user's position. Users can tap the map to see exactly where these residents live. A button labeled done for the day releases the current list back to the organization and clears the map. Users can then reopen the app from a new location to generate a fresh list of targets in that area.

The app includes built-in communication tools. Users can make direct phone calls to the listed individuals. They can also send text messages directly from the interface. This streamlines the process of contacting voters without needing to manually dial numbers or copy contact information.

The public nature of the TPAction app contrasts with a similar tool used by Democrats. The Democratic program, known as MiniVAN, allows campaign organizers to deploy volunteers to find likely supporters. However, MiniVAN requires users to be linked to a specific, private list controlled by the organization. The voter information is not publicly accessible to anyone who downloads the app.

Voter registration records are public information in the United States. Lists of individuals who have requested and returned early ballots are also publicly available. This public data explains why campaign outreach often ceases once a ballot is returned. The TPAction app aggregates this public data into a user-friendly interface for targeted outreach.

Bowyer noted that nothing about the app's operation is illegal. He emphasized that the data comes from public county election records. The app serves as a filter to help volunteers focus their efforts on specific households rather than canvassing every door in a neighborhood.

The organization was founded by Charlie Kirk to promote conservative candidates. The app is designed to aid volunteers in the final stage of the voting process. It helps identify people who have requested ballots but have not yet mailed them back, according to Bowyer.