Archive for March 2016

The Rhode Island legislature has overwhelmingly passed a bill that would establish online voter registration and permit participation in interstate exchanges like ERIC. If signed by the governor, the bill will add the nation’s smallest state to a growing list of states and the District now offering the ability to register or update voter records online.

Today, the Iowa Supreme Court will hear a case challenging the implementation of the state Constitution’s disenfranchisement of people convicted of “infamous crimes.” That policy, which has been a moving target recently but currently disenfranchises all felons, is dividing local officials over the importance of a “bright line” between eligible and ineligible felons – and if so, where to draw it.

Leon County, FL’s Ion Sancho is retiring this fall after a long and distinguished career in elections. Before he leaves, he’s done a “Five Questions” interview with Sunshine State News, covering a wide range of topics and revealing why his energy and commitment has meant so much to his community, his state – and the field – for nearly thirty years.

Long lines in Arizona during last week’s primary highlight the need for better forecasts of turnout – and as elections get more complex the issue is not just how many voters will show up, but where and when. At the same time, those forecasts need to include a prediction of how many people need extra time and attention due to eligibility or other issues.

Thanks to amazing medical professionals, patient friends/colleagues and an incredibly supportive family, I’m ready to come off the “disabled list” … blogging, electiongeekery and shenanigans resume Monday, March 28!

Making a short trip to the disabled list – blog and associated electiongeekery will (hopefully!) return Monday, March 28.

Controversy (and the inevitable lawsuit) has erupted in Ohio, where plaintiffs – including the Sanders campaign – are suing the Secretary of State over a rule that says 17-year-olds who will be 18 on Election Day in November cannot cast ballots for President in next week’s March 15 primary. They say that’s disenfranchisement; he says it’s the law.

Maine is one of a number of states with presidential nominating caucuses that is discussing whether to switch back to primaries. That decision – which encompasses questions of cost, procedure and timing – needs to ensure that whatever path the state chooses enjoys full investment (financial and otherwise) from policymakers.

Student turnout for early voting at Appalachian State University overwhelmed the on-campus site, resulting in long lines – likely the result of poor planning that put all voters (including same-day registrants) in the same line for check-in. The problem has been resolved but it’s a useful lesson for jurisdictions across the country as November (and its high turnout) approaches.

Voting technology expert Jeremy Epstein is one of those election geeks who “walks the talk” as a pollworker … he recently shared a short summary of his day at the polls, which is an excellent peek inside the polling place on Election Day and a useful preview of the issues everyone at the polls will face this fall.