E-Voting News and Analysis, from the Experts

Based on the problems being reported in early voting in some parts of
the country (see voteprotect.org), I have the following simple
recommendations for voters. I hope that everyone can help spread the word.

1. Prepare before going to the polls. Mark your votes in advance on
   the sample ballot that was mailed to you.

   Why?

   • We’re getting reports of long lines during early voting. This
     will make voting faster.

   • A few voters have reported that some offices were not on their
     screens, and that they didn’t discover it until they had returned
     to their home or car. If they had the list with them, any problem
     could have been detected immediately, in time to save their votes
     and perhpas get a witness to the problem.
2. Check the review screen carefully before casting your vote.

   Why?

   • Some voters have reported votes being registered that they
     didn’t select. In the cases we’ve heard about, this seems to
     be the result of confusing machine design.

     If you check carefully, you can catch these problems before casting
     your ballot.

3. Make sure you’ve cast your ballot! The last step is to touch a
   box on the touch-screen to cast your vote.

   Why?

   • Some voters have forgotten to do this. Depending on local
     procedures and how well they are followed, poll workers may
     finish casting your vote for you, or they may cancel your vote.
     If you make sure to finish the voting process, you can make sure
     your vote will be stored and counted.
4. If a machine appears to be working properly, ask a poll worker.
   If the problem is not resolved, write down the name of the poll
   worker and call 1-866-OUR-VOTE when you can to report the problem.

   Why?

   • Maybe they can help you make sure your vote is counted.
   • If the problem is not resolved, there will be a witness. This
     may be important for making sure the problem is taken seriously
     and gets fixed.