EAC - Voluntary Voting System Guidelines

Name : | Bradley Wittman
Organization : | N/A
Post Date : | 9/26/2005
Glossary Comments
Glossary Term : | See Below_1
Definition : |
Comment : | Ballot Measure: Definition is too narrow as "ballot measures" are not limited to "the adoption of laws and/or amendments to state constitutions...." An expanded definition that encompasses all types of ballot proposals including millage issues, bond proposals, local charter amendments, etc. is recommended. Challenged Ballot: Under Michigan's "challenged ballot" process, the challenged voter is first placed under oath and questioned on the qualification issue(s) raised by the challenger (residency status, age and/or citizenship status). If the challenged voter attests that he/she has the necessary qualifications to vote, a "challenged ballot" is issued to the voter. After the elector votes the ballot, it is cast and tabulated. The challenged ballot, marked with a code number for later identification if necessary, is retrieved only if sanctioned under court order. Thus, at least in Michigan, confirmation of the challenged voter's eligibility to vote occurs before the ballot is issued. Given Michigan's "challenged ballot" process, there may be a need for a broader definition of "challenged ballot." Multi-seat Content: Given the definition, appears that the term should be "Multi-seat Contest." Open Primary: The generally accepted definition of an "open primary" is a primary which does not involve or require the voter's public declaration or disclosure of his/her party preference. The glossary definition for "open primary" includes primaries which require the voter to publicly declare his/her "choice of party ballot." Revision of the definition is recommended. Primary Election: As primary elections are frequently held to nominate candidates for nonpartisan offices (as opposed to "sometimes"), revision of the definition is recommended.