Pew Hispanic Center Publication: Dissecting the 2008 Electorate: Most Diverse in U.S. History:
The electorate in last year's presidential election was the most racially and ethnically diverse in U.S. history, with nearly one-in-four votes cast by non-whites, according to a new analysis of Census Bureau data by the Pew Research Center. The nation's three biggest minority groups--blacks, Hispanics and Asians--each accounted for unprecedented shares of the presidential vote in 2008."
Thursday, April 30, 2009
York region - Let us vote online, Vaughan voters tell city
York region - Let us vote online, Vaughan voters tell city:
An interim report from the city's task force on democratic participation and renewal will be tabled for councillors at their meeting tomorrow.
The report, which surveyed 685 people from a cross-section of areas in the city, found that for more people to come to the polls come 2010, a few changes to the system might be needed.
For example, 70 per cent of all respondents said it would encourage them to vote if the city used internet voting as an option.
An interim report from the city's task force on democratic participation and renewal will be tabled for councillors at their meeting tomorrow.
The report, which surveyed 685 people from a cross-section of areas in the city, found that for more people to come to the polls come 2010, a few changes to the system might be needed.
For example, 70 per cent of all respondents said it would encourage them to vote if the city used internet voting as an option.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Majority of Americans Support Voting Reforms | Kansas City infoZine News | USA
Majority of Americans Support Voting Reforms | Kansas City infoZine News | USA:
Many state governments are considering implementation of election reforms to increase voter turnout and reduce fraud, but election officials are concerned about potential negative effects. A recent survey conducted by a University of Missouri professor reveals that the U.S. public supports several voting reforms, including early voting and photo identification requirements.
Many state governments are considering implementation of election reforms to increase voter turnout and reduce fraud, but election officials are concerned about potential negative effects. A recent survey conducted by a University of Missouri professor reveals that the U.S. public supports several voting reforms, including early voting and photo identification requirements.
Public Attitudes on State Election Administration, Goals, and Reforms - Harry S Truman School of Public Affairs | Publications
Harry S Truman School of Public Affairs | Publications:
Missouri Policy Briefs
Public Attitudes on State Election Administration, Goals, and Reforms
Date: 4-2009
Author(s): David Konisky, Michael Powell
Document: 5-2009 Public Attitudes and State Elections.pdf
Missouri Policy Briefs
Public Attitudes on State Election Administration, Goals, and Reforms
Date: 4-2009
Author(s): David Konisky, Michael Powell
Document: 5-2009 Public Attitudes and State Elections.pdf
Bulgaria: Bulgaria Votes in General Elections on July 5 - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Bulgaria: Bulgaria Votes in General Elections on July 5 - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency:
Bulgarians will head to the polls to elect the country's next parliament on July 5, the president decided.
President Georgi Parvanov concluded that he looked forward to free and fair elections and a high turnout.
Bulgaria will hold European Parliament elections about a month before the general elections, on June 7.
Polls show that the opposition GERB party of popular Sofia mayor Boyko Borisov is expected to garner 26% of the votes and the ruling Socialists are likely to get 16% in the European Parliament elections.
Bulgarians will head to the polls to elect the country's next parliament on July 5, the president decided.
President Georgi Parvanov concluded that he looked forward to free and fair elections and a high turnout.
Bulgaria will hold European Parliament elections about a month before the general elections, on June 7.
Polls show that the opposition GERB party of popular Sofia mayor Boyko Borisov is expected to garner 26% of the votes and the ruling Socialists are likely to get 16% in the European Parliament elections.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Iceland Election - Post-election dust beginning to settle | IceNews - Daily News
Post-election dust beginning to settle | IceNews - Daily News:
Iceland’s Social Democrats and Left Green Movement began talks yesterday on the formation of a new government following both parties’ strong showing in Saturday’s elections.
Iceland elects its politicians using a system of proportional representation, meaning that voters choose to support a party and its pre-arranged list of candidates who will receive seats in order, depending on the party’s share of the vote. Voters are, however, welcome to cross out candidates for the party they vote for on their ballot papers. If a lot of voters cross out the name of a candidate in their preferred party, that candidate will slip down the list.
Iceland’s Social Democrats and Left Green Movement began talks yesterday on the formation of a new government following both parties’ strong showing in Saturday’s elections.
Iceland elects its politicians using a system of proportional representation, meaning that voters choose to support a party and its pre-arranged list of candidates who will receive seats in order, depending on the party’s share of the vote. Voters are, however, welcome to cross out candidates for the party they vote for on their ballot papers. If a lot of voters cross out the name of a candidate in their preferred party, that candidate will slip down the list.
Friday, April 24, 2009
BC - Voter turnout to be high, electoral officer predicts
globeandmail.com: Voter turnout to be high, electoral officer predicts:
VICTORIA -- B.C.'s chief electoral officer is predicting a record turnout in the May 12 election, saying the long downward trend in voter participation is over.
Voter registration closed at midnight on Wednesday and he expects to have close to three million people on the list, out of an estimated 3.2 million eligible voters.
Mr. Neufeld said a heavy push on enumeration and new co-operation with Elections Canada has helped boost the list this time. And that will likely translate into a boost in turnout at the polls: "There is a truism in electoral administration that registered voters are more likely to vote than non-registered voters."
VICTORIA -- B.C.'s chief electoral officer is predicting a record turnout in the May 12 election, saying the long downward trend in voter participation is over.
Voter registration closed at midnight on Wednesday and he expects to have close to three million people on the list, out of an estimated 3.2 million eligible voters.
Mr. Neufeld said a heavy push on enumeration and new co-operation with Elections Canada has helped boost the list this time. And that will likely translate into a boost in turnout at the polls: "There is a truism in electoral administration that registered voters are more likely to vote than non-registered voters."
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Ireland - Electronic voting system to be scrapped
RTÉ News: Electronic voting system to be scrapped:
The electronic voting system is to be scrapped, having cost at least €51m to date.
Environment Minister John Gormley said a task force is being set up to oversee the disposal of the voting and counting equipment and the end of storage arrangements.
The electronic voting system is to be scrapped, having cost at least €51m to date.
Environment Minister John Gormley said a task force is being set up to oversee the disposal of the voting and counting equipment and the end of storage arrangements.
South Africa - "Stuffed" Ballot Boxes, Mail & Guardian Online
Ballot boxes 'too full' in Gauteng - Mail & Guardian Online: The smart news source:
Voter turnout in Gauteng has been so high that ballot boxes were too full, the provincial electoral commission said on Wednesday.
'As early as 5.30am, there were queues forming at some of our voting stations in the province,' Gauteng chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo told reporters in Johannesburg."
Voter turnout in Gauteng has been so high that ballot boxes were too full, the provincial electoral commission said on Wednesday.
'As early as 5.30am, there were queues forming at some of our voting stations in the province,' Gauteng chief electoral officer Sy Mamabolo told reporters in Johannesburg."
Ontario - Thorold considers vote-by-mail for 2010 election - St. Catharines Standard - Ontario, CA
Thorold considers vote-by-mail for 2010 election - St. Catharines Standard - Ontario, CA:
Thoroldites may find themselves walking to the nearest mailbox instead of a polling station come the next municipal election. The city is considering implementing a vote-by-mail system for the 2010 election, with the hope it will bolster lacklustre turnout at the polls.
"One-hundred and twenty cities and towns -- about one-quarter of Ontario's municipalities -- used a vote-by-mail system in 2006. In a report to council earlier this month, Daniels said they all reported that they would use it again."
The Columbus Dispatch : Brunner offers election reforms
The Columbus Dispatch : Brunner offers election reforms:
Wednesday, April 22, 2009 10:33 AM
Ohioans would get more places to cast early absentee ballots but would have fewer days to vote under a plan unveiled today by Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009 10:33 AM
Ohioans would get more places to cast early absentee ballots but would have fewer days to vote under a plan unveiled today by Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner.
Ohio's top elections official also pushed for simplifying provisional voting and voter-identification laws and eliminating special elections in February and August as part of a broad proposal to reform state elections.
Brunner issued a 33-page report to Gov. Ted Strickland and the legislature today with a variety of proposed changes developed after two election summits that Brunner convened in December and March.
The proposals focused on three areas: voting technology and administration, including improving the statewide voter-registration database; absentee-voting changes, including allowing up to four early voting locations in each county for 20 days before an election; and Election Day voting and postelection procedures.Moose Draw Opportunity (;-)
House approves promoting voter registration for hunters and anglers | Political Fix | STLtoday:
JEFFERSON CITY — The House has given first-round approval to a bill that would supply voter registration forms to people seeking hunting and fishing licenses.
JEFFERSON CITY — The House has given first-round approval to a bill that would supply voter registration forms to people seeking hunting and fishing licenses.
Nearly 10,000 Cypriots will vote abroad in Euro elections
Nearly 10,000 Cypriots will vote abroad in Euro elections
A TOTAL of 33 polling stations will be set up in 25 towns in different countries for Cypriot nationals to vote in the June 6 European Parliament elections.
Polling stations will be set up in Athens (five), Thessalonika (three), Patra, Komotini, Larissa, Volos, Heraklion, Rethymno, Serres, Rhodes, Mytilene, Ioannina, Kalamata, Kozani, London (three), Manchester, Birmingham, Berlin, Brussels, Moscow, Prague, Budapest, Sofia, Doha and Dubai.
A TOTAL of 33 polling stations will be set up in 25 towns in different countries for Cypriot nationals to vote in the June 6 European Parliament elections.
Polling stations will be set up in Athens (five), Thessalonika (three), Patra, Komotini, Larissa, Volos, Heraklion, Rethymno, Serres, Rhodes, Mytilene, Ioannina, Kalamata, Kozani, London (three), Manchester, Birmingham, Berlin, Brussels, Moscow, Prague, Budapest, Sofia, Doha and Dubai.
South Africa - Massive voter turnout leaves IEC reeling
The South African - The no.1 Newspaper for South Africans living abroad:
Massive voter turnout leaves IEC reeling
An estimated 80.2 percent of registered voters swamped the country’s polling stations on Wednesday in a massive turnout that could rival the 1994 elections in size and significance. HOWEVER, the festive atmosphere that prevailed at most of the polling stations was marred by a series of problems that hit a number of voting centres across the country.
Massive voter turnout leaves IEC reeling
An estimated 80.2 percent of registered voters swamped the country’s polling stations on Wednesday in a massive turnout that could rival the 1994 elections in size and significance. HOWEVER, the festive atmosphere that prevailed at most of the polling stations was marred by a series of problems that hit a number of voting centres across the country.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Votenet Solutions Supports Renewable Energy Development via Partnership with Renewable Choice Energy
Votenet Solutions Supports Renewable Energy Development via Partnership with Renewable Choice Energy:
Votenet Solutions is supporting the generation of renewable energy via RCE's American Wind™ power product, a blend of renewable energy credits from wind farms across North America, primarily the U.S.
Votenet Solutions is supporting the generation of renewable energy via RCE's American Wind™ power product, a blend of renewable energy credits from wind farms across North America, primarily the U.S.
Honolulu announces online voting for neighborhood boards | HonoluluAdvertiser.com | The Honolulu Advertiser
Honolulu announces online voting for neighborhood boards | HonoluluAdvertiser.com | The Honolulu Advertiser:
The Neighborhood Commission Office has entered into a contract with San Diego-based Everyone Counts, Inc. for online voting services in the 2009 Neighborhood Board elections, the city announced yesterday.
The Neighborhood Commission Office has entered into a contract with San Diego-based Everyone Counts, Inc. for online voting services in the 2009 Neighborhood Board elections, the city announced yesterday.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
SA government applauds overseas voting
The South African - The no.1 Newspaper for South Africans living abroad:
SA government applauds overseas voting
Elections 2009
The South African government has acknowledged the importance of the expatriate vote, calling the voting which took place abroad last Wednesday a “significant” part of the election process.
16 240 South Africans living abroad applied for and were granted permission for a special vote, giving South Africans living abroad the right to vote for the first time since 1994.
The voting, which took place last Wednesday at 124 foreign missions worldwide, was hailed by South Africans and officials as a success and an important step in South African democracy.
SA government applauds overseas voting
Elections 2009
The South African government has acknowledged the importance of the expatriate vote, calling the voting which took place abroad last Wednesday a “significant” part of the election process.
16 240 South Africans living abroad applied for and were granted permission for a special vote, giving South Africans living abroad the right to vote for the first time since 1994.
The voting, which took place last Wednesday at 124 foreign missions worldwide, was hailed by South Africans and officials as a success and an important step in South African democracy.
Voter concerned about mail-in ballots
Voter concerned about mail-in ballots:
THEBACHA/FORT SMITH - With today's byelection and a pending election for chief and three band councillors, concerns have been raised about the Salt River First Nation's mail-in voting procedures.
THEBACHA/FORT SMITH - With today's byelection and a pending election for chief and three band councillors, concerns have been raised about the Salt River First Nation's mail-in voting procedures.
"I am just concerned about the confidentiality, when you mail in your envelope," said Cindy Sabourin, a Fort Providence resident and member of the Salt River First Nation.
She said when she sends the ballot away to the electoral officer, it is sealed in a brown envelope within a larger envelope, adorned with her return address.
Sabourin is concerned that when the ballot arrives in Fort Smith, someone could write down her name and who she voted for, or her ballot may not be counted.
"I feel it should be totally anonymous," she said.
Voting machine expert criticizes "clueless" industry report - Ars Technica
Voting machine expert criticizes "clueless" industry report - Ars Technica:
An organization that represents the most prominent electronic voting machine vendors has published a study that contends that mandatory code disclosure would undermine the security of commercial voting machines. A voting machine security expert has responded and explains why the vendors' rhetoric is wrong.
An organization that represents the most prominent electronic voting machine vendors has published a study that contends that mandatory code disclosure would undermine the security of commercial voting machines. A voting machine security expert has responded and explains why the vendors' rhetoric is wrong.
How to Improve E-Voting? Take It to the Cloud | Technologizer
How to Improve E-Voting? Take It to the Cloud | Technologizer:
By David Worthington | Posted at 6:24 pm on Monday, April 20, 2009
"State governments in the United States must maintain servers year round for tallying votes during a matter of hours on election day, and many have a mixed record accomplishing even that task. A CNET article published today suggests that cloud computing provides a better alternative, and I agree."
By David Worthington | Posted at 6:24 pm on Monday, April 20, 2009
"State governments in the United States must maintain servers year round for tallying votes during a matter of hours on election day, and many have a mixed record accomplishing even that task. A CNET article published today suggests that cloud computing provides a better alternative, and I agree."
States turn to Web 2.0 tools for upcoming elections | Politics and Law - CNET News
States turn to Web 2.0 tools for upcoming elections | Politics and Law - CNET News:
WASHINGTON--State governments are turning to tools like Twitter to manage elections in order to cut costs and keep up with increasingly Net-savvy citizens.
Both California and Ohio are using more Web tools to communicate with citizens and their own staff during elections, the states' respective secretaries of state said Monday.
WASHINGTON--State governments are turning to tools like Twitter to manage elections in order to cut costs and keep up with increasingly Net-savvy citizens.
Both California and Ohio are using more Web tools to communicate with citizens and their own staff during elections, the states' respective secretaries of state said Monday.
Through projects such as the Voting Information Project, states have been moving voter information online, such as voter registration instructions, polling locations, and descriptions of issues and candidates on the ballot. Millions of citizens also turn to state-run sites to track election results.
Now, the state of California is planning to utilize cloud computing for its election night services with the aim of saving money by storing data with external hosting providers, said California Secretary of State Debra Bowen.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Election plan loses federal support - Winnipeg Free Press
Election plan loses federal support - Winnipeg Free Press:
OTTAWA -- Federal Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl has withdrawn his government's support for a Manitoba-led plan to standardize elections for First Nations.
Last week, a spokesman for Strahl said the minister will work with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to implement the changes, which include holding elections for chief and council on reserves in Manitoba on the same day on a four-year cycle, and introducing a First Nations electoral officer to oversee them.
OTTAWA -- Federal Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl has withdrawn his government's support for a Manitoba-led plan to standardize elections for First Nations.
Last week, a spokesman for Strahl said the minister will work with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to implement the changes, which include holding elections for chief and council on reserves in Manitoba on the same day on a four-year cycle, and introducing a First Nations electoral officer to oversee them.
Campus voting system lacks usability - The Daily Iowan
Campus voting system lacks usability - The Daily Iowan:
"Some students attempted to log on to Votenet — the online service UISG pays to use for voting — on April 13, only to find the system was unavailable. The Student Elections Board was forced to delay the election for a week, but student government will likely still be responsible for the $5,000 Votenet charges for its services."
"Some students attempted to log on to Votenet — the online service UISG pays to use for voting — on April 13, only to find the system was unavailable. The Student Elections Board was forced to delay the election for a week, but student government will likely still be responsible for the $5,000 Votenet charges for its services."
Friday, April 17, 2009
ETC Urges New Approach for Open Source Voting
ETC Urges New Approach for Open Source Voting:
The Election Technology Council (ETC) has announced their bid for a new approach for open source voting solutions and has released a new report, “Open Source: Understanding its Application in the Voting Industry” that recommends policy makers clearly differentiate between proprietary and open source code voting based software solutions as well as urges them to use a grass root level approach to guarantee smooth and legal transition from existing proprietary to possible open voting applications.
The Election Technology Council (ETC) has announced their bid for a new approach for open source voting solutions and has released a new report, “Open Source: Understanding its Application in the Voting Industry” that recommends policy makers clearly differentiate between proprietary and open source code voting based software solutions as well as urges them to use a grass root level approach to guarantee smooth and legal transition from existing proprietary to possible open voting applications.
Chief Electoral Officer of Canada Receives Notice of Vacancy in House of Commons for New Westminster-Coquitlam
Chief Electoral Officer of Canada Receives Notice of Vacancy in House of Commons for New Westminster-Coquitlam:
OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 04/17/09 -- - The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, Marc Mayrand, received yesterday the warrant from the Speaker of the House of Commons indicating that the seat for New Westminster-Coquitlam (British Columbia) is vacant.
- At least 11 days and no more than 180 days must pass after the receipt of a warrant by the Chief Electoral Officer before a by-election is called, in accordance with subsection 31(1) of the Parliament of Canada Act. :
OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 04/17/09 -- - The Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, Marc Mayrand, received yesterday the warrant from the Speaker of the House of Commons indicating that the seat for New Westminster-Coquitlam (British Columbia) is vacant.
- At least 11 days and no more than 180 days must pass after the receipt of a warrant by the Chief Electoral Officer before a by-election is called, in accordance with subsection 31(1) of the Parliament of Canada Act. :
Critics say Florida Senate bill could disenfranchise voters - St. Petersburg Times
Critics say Florida Senate bill could disenfranchise voters - St. Petersburg Times:
TALLAHASSEE — A sweeping overhaul of Florida election laws is gaining momentum in the Legislature over strong opposition from opponents who say it would disenfranchise voters and weaken the process for ballot initiative.
TALLAHASSEE — A sweeping overhaul of Florida election laws is gaining momentum in the Legislature over strong opposition from opponents who say it would disenfranchise voters and weaken the process for ballot initiative.
Bulgaria:: e-vote to failure - Columnists - The Sofia Echo
Offline: e-vote to failure - Columnists - The Sofia Echo:
With about two months to go before general elections, the Bulgarian Parliament decided it would experimentally introduce e-voting at the 2009 elections. How e-voting is going to work exactly is anyone’s guess at this point as the precise procedure still has to be decided on.
All that is known for now is that there would be no online e-voting as many Bulgarians abroad hoped for. Instead, 50 to 60 polling stations would be outfitted with a computerised system and a magnetic card reader. The timing of the decision raises a series of questions at the very least.
With about two months to go before general elections, the Bulgarian Parliament decided it would experimentally introduce e-voting at the 2009 elections. How e-voting is going to work exactly is anyone’s guess at this point as the precise procedure still has to be decided on.
All that is known for now is that there would be no online e-voting as many Bulgarians abroad hoped for. Instead, 50 to 60 polling stations would be outfitted with a computerised system and a magnetic card reader. The timing of the decision raises a series of questions at the very least.
Alabama: Internet voting bill approved by House | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser
Internet voting bill approved by House | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser:
The Alabama House on Thursday passed a bill that would allow some Alabama citizens overseas to cast their ballots over secure Internet connections.
The Alabama House on Thursday passed a bill that would allow some Alabama citizens overseas to cast their ballots over secure Internet connections.
SINGAPORE: No e-voting yet
No e-voting yet:
SINGAPORE has been studying electronic voting but has no plans to introduce it yet, said the Elections Department yesterday.
SINGAPORE has been studying electronic voting but has no plans to introduce it yet, said the Elections Department yesterday.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
New York: District CEC Online Voting Deadline Is April 22 | www.qgazette.com | Queens Gazette
District CEC Online Voting Deadline Is April 22 | www.qgazette.com | Queens Gazette:
The state-of-the-art elections which began with an advisory or straw vote on April 6 at www.powertotheparents.org, will be the first public elections in U.S. history to be held exclusively on the Web.
“These elections are the future of democracy in America,” Chris Backert of Election-America (http://www.election-america.com/), the technology company overseeing the CEC’s online voting process, said. “Internet voting ensures that hard-working families, who don’t have the time to make it to the polls, aren’t shut out of some of the most important decisions affecting their lives.”
The state-of-the-art elections which began with an advisory or straw vote on April 6 at www.powertotheparents.org, will be the first public elections in U.S. history to be held exclusively on the Web.
“These elections are the future of democracy in America,” Chris Backert of Election-America (http://www.election-america.com/), the technology company overseeing the CEC’s online voting process, said. “Internet voting ensures that hard-working families, who don’t have the time to make it to the polls, aren’t shut out of some of the most important decisions affecting their lives.”
India : Voters take cash from many, vote for one - The Times of India
Voters take cash from many, vote for one - India - The Times of India:
While the EC has issued a gag order against the media, it seems oblivious to the rampant buying of votes going on, which even politicians admit.
Says a senior Congress leader in Maharashtra: ‘‘Voters know this is the time to make money, so they are willing to auction their votes. Given the closely-contested and issueless nature of the polls, parties have no choice but to give in.’’
While the EC has issued a gag order against the media, it seems oblivious to the rampant buying of votes going on, which even politicians admit.
Says a senior Congress leader in Maharashtra: ‘‘Voters know this is the time to make money, so they are willing to auction their votes. Given the closely-contested and issueless nature of the polls, parties have no choice but to give in.’’
‘Quarter of Bulgarians’ Would Sell their Vote :: BalkanInsight.com
‘Quarter of Bulgarians’ Would Sell their Vote :: BalkanInsight.com:
Some 25 percent of Bulgaria's citizens say they are ready to sell their vote ahead of parliamentary elections due in early July, a report by Open Society shows.
Some 25 percent of Bulgaria's citizens say they are ready to sell their vote ahead of parliamentary elections due in early July, a report by Open Society shows.
Election 2009 begins in India, but leaves a trail of violence - Mangalorean.Com
Mangalorean.Com- Serving Mangaloreans Around The World!:
Election 2009 begins in India, but leaves a trail of violence
New Delhi, April 16 (IANS) The world's largest democratic exercise to vote in a new government began in India Thursday with voters queuing up in 17 states and union territories in the first phase of staggered elections marred by Maoist violence that left at least 17 people dead.
Election 2009 begins in India, but leaves a trail of violence
New Delhi, April 16 (IANS) The world's largest democratic exercise to vote in a new government began in India Thursday with voters queuing up in 17 states and union territories in the first phase of staggered elections marred by Maoist violence that left at least 17 people dead.
Alabama House to debate overseas Internet voting - Air Force News, news from Iraq - Air Force Times
House to debate overseas Internet voting - Air Force News, news from Iraq - Air Force Times:
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama House is to consider a bill that would allow some Alabama residents overseas — military personnel fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan — to cast their ballots over secure Internet connections.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama House is to consider a bill that would allow some Alabama residents overseas — military personnel fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan — to cast their ballots over secure Internet connections.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
In Minnesota, a Battle Without End for a Senate Seat - NYTimes.com
In Minnesota, a Battle Without End for a Senate Seat - NYTimes.com:
"Mr. Franken and Mr. Coleman are caught in a political twilight, players in a race that will not end. A three-judge panel declared Mr. Franken the winner on Monday by 312 votes out of roughly 3 million cast, after a seven-week trial, but Mr. Coleman promptly announced that he would appeal to the state’s highest court, raising the prospect that Minnesota will not get its second senator until the Congressional recess begins this summer."
"Mr. Franken and Mr. Coleman are caught in a political twilight, players in a race that will not end. A three-judge panel declared Mr. Franken the winner on Monday by 312 votes out of roughly 3 million cast, after a seven-week trial, but Mr. Coleman promptly announced that he would appeal to the state’s highest court, raising the prospect that Minnesota will not get its second senator until the Congressional recess begins this summer."
South African election begins with overseas vote (Lead)
South African election begins with overseas vote (Lead):
Pretoria, April 16 (IANS) Thousands of South Africans living around the world descended Wednesday on their country’s missions abroad to cast their votes in the fourth general elections since the end of the apartheid era.
Some 16,240 registered South Africans living abroad are expected to vote at South African embassies in their respective countries between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, in a process that will be overseen by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) at 124 missions, BuaNews reported.
Pretoria, April 16 (IANS) Thousands of South Africans living around the world descended Wednesday on their country’s missions abroad to cast their votes in the fourth general elections since the end of the apartheid era.
Some 16,240 registered South Africans living abroad are expected to vote at South African embassies in their respective countries between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, in a process that will be overseen by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) at 124 missions, BuaNews reported.
Bulgarian President vetoes controversial changes to elections act - Bulgaria - The Sofia Echo
Bulgarian President vetoes controversial changes to elections act - Bulgaria - The Sofia Echo:
President Georgi Purvanov has returned amendments to the Elections Act to Parliament, saying that he disagreed with the new threshold of eight per cent that political coalitions would have to pass in Bulgaria's parliamentary elections to be held in less than three months.
President Georgi Purvanov has returned amendments to the Elections Act to Parliament, saying that he disagreed with the new threshold of eight per cent that political coalitions would have to pass in Bulgaria's parliamentary elections to be held in less than three months.
Bulgaria - Mass Falsification of Bulgarian Elections Expected \ Бнм, Българска новинарска мрежа
Bnn, Bulgarian news network - online news agency \ Бнм, Българска новинарска мрежа:
Mass Falsification of Bulgarian Elections Expected
A mass falsification of the elections for representatives in the European Parliament as well as the Bulgarian National Assembly this summer are expected after the latest legislation changes, NGO’s warned Wednesday.
According to them the current Government had undertaken an unprecedented change of voting laws, aiming to secure a victory for itself on the next elections.
Mass Falsification of Bulgarian Elections Expected
A mass falsification of the elections for representatives in the European Parliament as well as the Bulgarian National Assembly this summer are expected after the latest legislation changes, NGO’s warned Wednesday.
According to them the current Government had undertaken an unprecedented change of voting laws, aiming to secure a victory for itself on the next elections.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Court says Franken won Minn. vote count | Philadelphia Inquirer | 04/14/2009
Court says Franken won Minn. vote count | Philadelphia Inquirer | 04/14/2009:
ST. PAUL, Minn. - A Minnesota court confirmed yesterday that Democrat Al Franken won the most votes in his 2008 Senate race against Republican Norm Coleman.
Coleman, who had already announced plans to appeal the decision, has 10 days to do so to the state Supreme Court. Once his petition is filed, that could further delay the seating of Minnesota's second senator for weeks.
ST. PAUL, Minn. - A Minnesota court confirmed yesterday that Democrat Al Franken won the most votes in his 2008 Senate race against Republican Norm Coleman.
Coleman, who had already announced plans to appeal the decision, has 10 days to do so to the state Supreme Court. Once his petition is filed, that could further delay the seating of Minnesota's second senator for weeks.
Tufts Daily - Freshmen to vote for third time
Tufts Daily - Freshmen to vote for third time:
ECOM had to nullify a second contest yesterday after a technological malfunction left freshmen unable to vote for senators after 10 a.m. A third election is scheduled for Wednesday.
According to ECOM Chair Adam Weldai, the external server Votenet was responsible for yesterday’s glitch, which resulted in persistent error messages and page-load problems throughout the day as students tried to cast ballots.
“This isn’t the candidates’ fault; this isn’t ECOM’s fault. The issue is with Votenet,” Weldai, a senior, told the Daily last night. “We have been working with Votenet all day to no avail … They weren’t successful in helping us restore the ballot or helping us understand the problem.”
ECOM had to nullify a second contest yesterday after a technological malfunction left freshmen unable to vote for senators after 10 a.m. A third election is scheduled for Wednesday.
According to ECOM Chair Adam Weldai, the external server Votenet was responsible for yesterday’s glitch, which resulted in persistent error messages and page-load problems throughout the day as students tried to cast ballots.
“This isn’t the candidates’ fault; this isn’t ECOM’s fault. The issue is with Votenet,” Weldai, a senior, told the Daily last night. “We have been working with Votenet all day to no avail … They weren’t successful in helping us restore the ballot or helping us understand the problem.”
Bulgaria to Experiment with Electronic Voting: Bulgaria to Experiment with Electronic Voting - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Bulgaria Bulgaria to Experiment with Electronic Voting: Bulgaria to Experiment with Electronic Voting - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency:
Bulgaria will introduce for the first time a system for electronic voting in a bid to prevent vote buying during the upcoming elections in the summer, parliament decided.
Bulgaria will introduce for the first time a system for electronic voting in a bid to prevent vote buying during the upcoming elections in the summer, parliament decided.
Voters will be able to cast their ballot electronically via special cards in fifty election booths, equipped with monitors and card readers, under amendments to the Election of National Representatives Act, which parliament adopted at second reading on Tuesday.
The parliament rejected a proposal for online voting, which aimed to involve more young people and those living abroad in the political decision-making of the country.
Monday, April 13, 2009
National Journal Online - Voting Reform Gets New Life
National Journal Online - Voting Reform Gets New Life:
In the wake of a landmark survey showing that registration problems blocked as many as 3 million eligible voters from casting ballots last November, lawmakers on Capitol Hill are hunting once again for ways to fix the broken election system.
The most likely targets for legislative action this year are voter registration and the obstacles that snarl the absentee ballot process for millions of military and overseas voters. There's also growing interest in collecting better data to measure how well states run their elections, using yardsticks and performance rankings.
In the wake of a landmark survey showing that registration problems blocked as many as 3 million eligible voters from casting ballots last November, lawmakers on Capitol Hill are hunting once again for ways to fix the broken election system.
The most likely targets for legislative action this year are voter registration and the obstacles that snarl the absentee ballot process for millions of military and overseas voters. There's also growing interest in collecting better data to measure how well states run their elections, using yardsticks and performance rankings.
Philippines - Poll computers' source code to be open--Comelec - INQUIRER.net,
Poll computers' source code to be open--Comelec - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos:
MANILA, Philippines -- The source code for the software to be used in election computers in 2010 will be opened to the scrutiny of poll watchdogs and programmers, the Commission on Elections has assured the public.
MANILA, Philippines -- The source code for the software to be used in election computers in 2010 will be opened to the scrutiny of poll watchdogs and programmers, the Commission on Elections has assured the public.
NIST Issues Guidelines For E-Voting Machines -- InformationWeek
NIST Issues Guidelines For E-Voting Machines -- InformationWeek:
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has released a new draft of voluntary federal standards for electronic voting machines.
NIST announced last week that it will take public comment on the new methods until July 1. Once the standards are adopted, state and local governments will decide whether their voting machine manufacturers will be required to meet the guidelines.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has released a new draft of voluntary federal standards for electronic voting machines.
NIST announced last week that it will take public comment on the new methods until July 1. Once the standards are adopted, state and local governments will decide whether their voting machine manufacturers will be required to meet the guidelines.
Bill pushes all-paper voting - The Denver Post
Bill pushes all-paper voting - The Denver Post:
State lawmakers have introduced a bill that would push Colorado toward an all-paper election system, but the measure doesn't contain a hard deadline for achieving such a system.
State lawmakers have introduced a bill that would push Colorado toward an all-paper election system, but the measure doesn't contain a hard deadline for achieving such a system.
Editorial: Internet voting has promise | news-press.com | The News-Press
Editorial: Internet voting has promise | news-press.com | The News-Press:
New York City is taking Internet voting to unprecedented heights in what's hailed as the United States' first public election held exclusively on the Web.
New York City is taking Internet voting to unprecedented heights in what's hailed as the United States' first public election held exclusively on the Web.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Everyone Counts, Inc. :: Everyone Counts Announces an Email and Fax Solution
Everyone Counts, Inc. :: Everyone Counts Announces an Email and Fax Solution:
SAN DIEGO, April 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Everyone Counts, Inc. announced today a new solution to ensure that every overseas civilian and all military personnel serving abroad are able to vote securely and privately, and that their votes will be counted.
The solution is called eLect Today. 'I am excited by what this elegant yet simple solution can do to enhance the privacy and security of our military and overseas voters,' said Lori Steele, CEO of Everyone Counts at the product launch.
SAN DIEGO, April 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Everyone Counts, Inc. announced today a new solution to ensure that every overseas civilian and all military personnel serving abroad are able to vote securely and privately, and that their votes will be counted.
The solution is called eLect Today. 'I am excited by what this elegant yet simple solution can do to enhance the privacy and security of our military and overseas voters,' said Lori Steele, CEO of Everyone Counts at the product launch.
India Elections - Three EVMs are required to fit in 36 candidates’ names
Three EVMs are required to fit in 36 candidates’ names:
As Pune Lok Sabha election has 36 contestants, the district election officer has to reschedule requirements for EVMs. As each ballot unit can accommodate only 16 names, three units would be needed at each polling booth. This has shot up the demand for EVMs by 3,106 units. Besides, an additional polling officer will be appointed at each centre.
[This could be an interesting twist on the secret ballot!]
As Pune Lok Sabha election has 36 contestants, the district election officer has to reschedule requirements for EVMs. As each ballot unit can accommodate only 16 names, three units would be needed at each polling booth. This has shot up the demand for EVMs by 3,106 units. Besides, an additional polling officer will be appointed at each centre.
[This could be an interesting twist on the secret ballot!]
Finland Court Orders New Municipal Elections - Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Home
Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Home:
In a ruling handed down on Thursday, the Supreme Administrative Court has ordered that new municipal elections should be held in Vihti, Karkkila, and Kauniainen.
In last October's municipal elections, electronic voting was given a trial run in these three communities. The experiment was not a complete success, and a total of more than 200 votes went uncounted because of a technical glitch.
In a ruling handed down on Thursday, the Supreme Administrative Court has ordered that new municipal elections should be held in Vihti, Karkkila, and Kauniainen.
In last October's municipal elections, electronic voting was given a trial run in these three communities. The experiment was not a complete success, and a total of more than 200 votes went uncounted because of a technical glitch.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Indonesia head to the polls
Indonesia head to the polls:
Indonesians will cast their ballots on Thursday in only the third general election since the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998, which ushered in a new era of democratic reform.
The country's 171 million eligible voters are being asked to choose between thousands of candidates in a legislative vote that will help decide the field of contenders for presidential elections in July.
Indonesians will cast their ballots on Thursday in only the third general election since the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998, which ushered in a new era of democratic reform.
The country's 171 million eligible voters are being asked to choose between thousands of candidates in a legislative vote that will help decide the field of contenders for presidential elections in July.
Overseas Algerian voting in full swing (Magharebia.com)
Overseas Algerian voting in full swing (Magharebia.com):
While the vote for Algeria's next president takes place on Thursday, April 9th, expatriates have been voting since Saturday. Roughly, 950,000 nationals of voting age in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America are participating in the election.
While the vote for Algeria's next president takes place on Thursday, April 9th, expatriates have been voting since Saturday. Roughly, 950,000 nationals of voting age in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America are participating in the election.
Big bucks for big elections: India polls to lift economy | Top News
Big bucks for big elections: India polls to lift economy | Top News:
The spin-off effects of nationwide campaigns are already giving a boost to businesses and industry as more than 100 billion rupees (2 billion dollars) is expected to be pumped into the system in the five-stage election over the month between April 16 and May 13.
The spin-off effects of nationwide campaigns are already giving a boost to businesses and industry as more than 100 billion rupees (2 billion dollars) is expected to be pumped into the system in the five-stage election over the month between April 16 and May 13.
New voting system for provincial NDP
New voting system for provincial NDP:
REGINA -- A new voting system has been chosen by the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party, leaving voters little room for excuses when it comes to voting or not.
On Tuesday, the party announced Intelivote Systems Inc. as the company chosen to run the voting process for the provincial leadership election that will take place June 6.
REGINA -- A new voting system has been chosen by the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party, leaving voters little room for excuses when it comes to voting or not.
On Tuesday, the party announced Intelivote Systems Inc. as the company chosen to run the voting process for the provincial leadership election that will take place June 6.
Nigeria - INEC, Computer Society canvass e-voting in future elections, Guardian Newspapers
Guardian Newspapers:
IN preparation for future general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian Computer Society (NCS) is collaborating on the implementation of an information technology driven solutions that will guard against the efficiency of the electoral body.
IN preparation for future general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian Computer Society (NCS) is collaborating on the implementation of an information technology driven solutions that will guard against the efficiency of the electoral body.
Nigeria - 2011 elections: Legislative bottleneck may derail e-voting, say INEC, NCS - Vanguard Online Edition
Vanguard Online Edition - 2011 elections: Legislative bottleneck may derail e-voting, say INEC, NCS:
While listing conditions for deploying a robust e-voting machine for 2011 general elections, the independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) in partnership with the Nigerian Computer Society, (NCS) have expressed fears, saying that bureaucratic bottleneck may derail the adoption e-voting machine for the electoral process.
While listing conditions for deploying a robust e-voting machine for 2011 general elections, the independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) in partnership with the Nigerian Computer Society, (NCS) have expressed fears, saying that bureaucratic bottleneck may derail the adoption e-voting machine for the electoral process.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Montana - BillingsGazette.com :: Gazette Opinion: Let local people decide on all all-mail ballots
BillingsGazette.com :: Gazette Opinion: Let local people decide on all all-mail ballots:
Voting by mail has grown in popularity to the point that more Yellowstone County residents requested mail ballots for the November general election than went to the polls. (The county tallied 37,907 early ballots and had 71,204 voters total.)
Many Montana elections have been conducted exclusively with mail ballots in which all registered voters receive ballots at home and have the opportunity to vote at their convenience. Cities, schools, water, sewer and fire districts and even county bond issues have been placed on all-mail ballots. The result generally has been that more voters participate than in go-to-the-poll elections.
Voting by mail has grown in popularity to the point that more Yellowstone County residents requested mail ballots for the November general election than went to the polls. (The county tallied 37,907 early ballots and had 71,204 voters total.)
Many Montana elections have been conducted exclusively with mail ballots in which all registered voters receive ballots at home and have the opportunity to vote at their convenience. Cities, schools, water, sewer and fire districts and even county bond issues have been placed on all-mail ballots. The result generally has been that more voters participate than in go-to-the-poll elections.
Yahoo, Google Set Up Web Sites for Election in India - CIO.com - Business Technology Leadership
Yahoo, Google Set Up Web Sites for Election in India - CIO.com - Business Technology Leadership:
April 07, 2009 — IDG News Service — Google and Yahoo have launched special sites dedicated to coverage of the federal elections starting April 16 in a bid to build their brands among Internet users in the country.
The interest of the companies signals the growing importance of the role of the Internet in Indian elections. A number of Indian political parties are using Web sites, e-mail and videos on YouTube to reach voters.
April 07, 2009 — IDG News Service — Google and Yahoo have launched special sites dedicated to coverage of the federal elections starting April 16 in a bid to build their brands among Internet users in the country.
The interest of the companies signals the growing importance of the role of the Internet in Indian elections. A number of Indian political parties are using Web sites, e-mail and videos on YouTube to reach voters.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Bulgarian President Might Call Referendum on Voting System
Bnn, Bulgarian news network - online news agency \ Бнм, Българска новинарска мрежа:
Bulgarian president Georgi Parvanov announced Thursday that he might initiate a referendum on the voting system if MP's don't introduce non-proportional element to it themselves.
Bulgarian president Georgi Parvanov announced Thursday that he might initiate a referendum on the voting system if MP's don't introduce non-proportional element to it themselves.
Honolulu - NB candidate profiles and photos | HonoluluAdvertiser.com | The Honolulu Advertiser
Now online: NB candidate profiles and photos | HonoluluAdvertiser.com | The Honolulu Advertiser:
The Neighborhood Commission Office today announced that candidate profiles and photos are available on the City website for the public to review in advance of board elections in May. The information is posted at http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/2009canpro.htm
'The City strives to keep voters informed, and the NCO has posted information about Neighborhood Board elections online since 2007,' Mayor Hannemann said. 'My administration also supports the City Council's plan for online voting in this year's election, so it is important that candidate information be available online as well.'
The Neighborhood Commission Office today announced that candidate profiles and photos are available on the City website for the public to review in advance of board elections in May. The information is posted at http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/2009canpro.htm
'The City strives to keep voters informed, and the NCO has posted information about Neighborhood Board elections online since 2007,' Mayor Hannemann said. 'My administration also supports the City Council's plan for online voting in this year's election, so it is important that candidate information be available online as well.'
Election Trust's 'Kiosk' eVoting a USA First
Election Trust's 'Kiosk' eVoting a USA First:
Bellevue, WA (PRWEB) April 3, 2009 -- Election Trust, working with the King Conservation District (King CD), successfully introduced the first public sector use of binding remote electronic voting technology in the United States under the company's administration of King CD's March 19th Board of Supervisors election.
The eVote Kiosk balloting system was available at two of 13 Voting Centers located across King County. This internet balloting platform, powered by Scytl Secure Electronic Voting (www.scytl.com), provided end-to-end encrypted and auditable online balloting for voters who chose to cast an online ballot. Voters at these polling locations could also opt to use a paper ballot.
Bellevue, WA (PRWEB) April 3, 2009 -- Election Trust, working with the King Conservation District (King CD), successfully introduced the first public sector use of binding remote electronic voting technology in the United States under the company's administration of King CD's March 19th Board of Supervisors election.
The eVote Kiosk balloting system was available at two of 13 Voting Centers located across King County. This internet balloting platform, powered by Scytl Secure Electronic Voting (www.scytl.com), provided end-to-end encrypted and auditable online balloting for voters who chose to cast an online ballot. Voters at these polling locations could also opt to use a paper ballot.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Bulgaria Bulgaria MPs Approve New Vote Buying Punishments: Bulgaria MPs Approve New Vote Buying Punishments - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Bulgaria Bulgaria MPs Approve New Vote Buying Punishments: Bulgaria MPs Approve New Vote Buying Punishments - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency:
Anyone found to be involved in vote rigging or buying will now receive a jail term of 1-3 years and a fine of between BGN 1 000 and BGN 10 000. This new law includes anyone found threatening or conning voters during local or national elections, BGNES reported.
For more serious offences judges will be able to give a jail term of up to 6 years and a fine of up to BGN 20,000.
Anyone found to be involved in vote rigging or buying will now receive a jail term of 1-3 years and a fine of between BGN 1 000 and BGN 10 000. This new law includes anyone found threatening or conning voters during local or national elections, BGNES reported.
For more serious offences judges will be able to give a jail term of up to 6 years and a fine of up to BGN 20,000.
NIST Issues Open and Transparent Methods for Testing Electronic Voting Systems
NIST Issues Open and Transparent Methods for Testing Electronic Voting Systems:
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology today opened for public comment detailed new methods for testing future electronic voting systems' compliance with voluntary federal standards. Touch screens, optical scanners and other kinds of electronic voting systems now appear at polls across the nation.
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology today opened for public comment detailed new methods for testing future electronic voting systems' compliance with voluntary federal standards. Touch screens, optical scanners and other kinds of electronic voting systems now appear at polls across the nation.
Making Electronic Voting Transparent and Public. Category: Reader Commentaries from The Berkeley Daily Planet - Thursday April 02, 2009
Making Electronic Voting Transparent and Public. Category: Reader Commentaries from The Berkeley Daily Planet - Thursday April 02, 2009:
Responding to public concern about the reliability of election results produced by opaque proprietary corporate technology, Humboldt County Registrar Carolyn Crnich had invested about $25,000 of her budget to purchase an off-the-shelf, high-speed scanner to scan all the ballots and to place their images on a publicly available website. This approach was tried for the first time in the June 2008 primary election, and again in the general election of November. To see the ballots yourself, go to http://hum.dreamhosters.com/etp/.
Responding to public concern about the reliability of election results produced by opaque proprietary corporate technology, Humboldt County Registrar Carolyn Crnich had invested about $25,000 of her budget to purchase an off-the-shelf, high-speed scanner to scan all the ballots and to place their images on a publicly available website. This approach was tried for the first time in the June 2008 primary election, and again in the general election of November. To see the ballots yourself, go to http://hum.dreamhosters.com/etp/.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Calif. bans voting machine with software error - Forbes.com
Calif. bans voting machine with software error - Forbes.com:
Secretary of State Debra Bowen announced Tuesday that she had withdrawn approval for Premier Election Solutions' Global Election Management System version 1.18.19.
She said the machine contains a software error that can delete a first batch of optically scanned ballots without alerting election officials. The flaw caused 197 ballots to be deleted from initial results in Humboldt County last November.
Secretary of State Debra Bowen announced Tuesday that she had withdrawn approval for Premier Election Solutions' Global Election Management System version 1.18.19.
She said the machine contains a software error that can delete a first batch of optically scanned ballots without alerting election officials. The flaw caused 197 ballots to be deleted from initial results in Humboldt County last November.
Audit outlines steps to end circus - The Eyeopener Online
The Eyeopener Online:
If the Ryerson Students' Union ever wants to clean up its act, they now have the blueprint to do it with.
The Eyeopener obtained Deloitte's RSU audit, which outlines the accounting firm's recommendations. The audit, paid by the university for $85,000, focused on governance and election policy and the health and dental plan.
If the Ryerson Students' Union ever wants to clean up its act, they now have the blueprint to do it with.
The Eyeopener obtained Deloitte's RSU audit, which outlines the accounting firm's recommendations. The audit, paid by the university for $85,000, focused on governance and election policy and the health and dental plan.
Switch to online ballots
Deloitte favoured electronic voting at traditional polling stations for efficiency and transparency. Use a system that can double check how many votes were cast against how many ballots they physically have.
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