February 05, 2004
Palm Beach prints
Unfortunately, not in time for November’s election, but at least it’s a step in the right direction.
The touch-screen voting machines that were expected to rid Palm Beach of ballot controversies could eventually be equipped with printing machines to allow voters to double-check their selections.Palm Beach County Commissioners unanimously agreed on Tuesday to buy the ballot printers when the state certifies the equipment.
The anticipated $3.2 million expenditure doesn't guarantee printers will be in place for the November presidential election. But it ensures the commission will no longer be a defendant in a lawsuit by U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler, D-Delray Beach, to force use of the printers in Palm Beach County.
After the 2000 election debacle, where 37 days of recounts ultimately awarded George W. Bush the presidency, Florida replaced punch-card ballots and other low-tech voting methods with computer touchscreens and optical-scan machines.
Officials hoped to avoid the problems of 2000, when some voters claimed they weren't allowed to cast ballots because they were mistaken for convicted felons, were omitted from voter rolls, didn't provide identification even though it wasn't necessary or didn't understand English.
Other voters, notably in Palm Beach County, said a confusing ballot design, dubbed the butterfly ballot, led them to vote for the wrong candidate.
Although the new voting machines solved most concerns, new questions arose about whether they could be trusted to tally votes without a paper record of results. Critics say the machines are susceptible to errors and fraud and that a paper trail is needed in case a re-count is required.
The new printers will allow voters to check printed versions of their ballots against the screens. If a voter notices a discrepancy, changes can be made before the ballot is cast.
The printers have been embraced most enthusiastically by Democrats and groups still angry about 2000.
Committee to Defeat Bush Chairwoman Ruth Pleva said she favors a paper trail to prevent Republicans from stealing the 2004 election.
``I can't help but think that if all else fails, they will use the vulnerability of the machines to win the election,'' Pleva said.
Lots more on e-voting.
Posted by Norwood at February 5, 2004 05:26 AM