SET – More Tips For Election Day Fraud Prevention

Shiawassee Election Toolbox – More Tips For Election Day Fraud Prevention

Thanks to Kossak ‘Lokimom’ for this info:

1. Vote early. If you encounter problems, you’ll have time to sort them out and may be able to help others.

2. Take your government-issued ID (such as your driver’s license). You may not need it, but it’s best to have it.**

3. Bring your cell phone, if you have one. If you have problems, or see problems, you can call a hotline immediately (see #6).

4. Ask for a paper ballot. Some states, such as California, require polling places to have paper ballots available on request. If you don’t want to use a machine, see if your polling place can provide a paper ballot. If machines aren’t working or there are other problems, ask for an emergency ballot (although they may not be available everywhere).

5. Verify your vote. If you’re voting on an electronic voting machine, check the review screen to make sure it reflects your vote. If the machine produces a paper record (28 states require one), read it carefully to make sure it correctly reflects your vote. If it is incorrect, speak to a polling attendant-don’t leave until you’re sure your vote has been properly recorded.

6. Document and report. If you encounter difficulties, or see others experiencing difficulties (excessive lines, voter harassment, malfunctioning machines, etc.), make a detailed record. Get all the facts you can-location, names, specific problem. [If you have a video camera or a digital camera it may be useful too.]

We recommend two nationwide networks where you can report problems.

One is 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683), which will have volunteer lawyers in 15 locations standing by to provide assistance. The other is 1-866 My Vote-1 (1-866-698-6831), which will record your problem by voicemail, then forward your call to your local board of elections. Both will enter the information you provide into a database to use to support challenges to problem elections now and demands for reform in the future.

AFTER ELECTION DAY

Call your candidates. If there are questions about an election result, urge your candidate not to concede early; encourage that person to follow through with all available challenges and recounts. Ask how you can help.

Call your election officials. Let your county and state election officials know that you have concerns about the election and will be monitoring their response. Ask them not to certify the election before all challenges and recounts are finished.

INTO THE FUTURE

Work for fair, transparent elections. Voice your questions about voting machines, vote suppression, and election problems promptly. Keep the issue in front of your election officials.

If we want clean, trustworthy elections in 2008, we have to start working on it now.

If you have problems, questions, or see anything suspicious, you can also call the Shiawassee County Democratic Party Headquarters at 989-743-4171.

**You are not required to show ID unless this is your first time voting and you registered to vote by mail. If this is the case, you will need to verify your ID and address. See SET – Your Rights As A Michigan Voter.

Note: The views expressed on my website are not those of the Shiawassee County Democratic Party