Convened by the American Association for the
Advancement of Science
Main | Participants
OVERVIEW: In every major election
there are sporadic reports nationwide of some voters encountering long
lines and having to endure significant waits in order to cast their ballots.
Research could be conducted to collect data regarding what factors contribute
to occurrences of this problem. Based upon findings of this research,
remedies and action plans could be devised and shared with election administrators
with the goal of reducing the likelihood of repetition of the circumstances
that contribute to this undesirable outcome.
DEFINITION:
Research should identify the definition and parameters of what is meant
by “long lines” and “excessive waiting time.” Suggest the waiting time
would need to exceed 45 minutes prior to being so classified.
IDENTIFYING
FACTORS: An initial compilation of factors would likely include: length
of ballot including number and complexity of ballot propositions; ratio
of voting machines in a precinct to both the number of registered voters
and the number of likely voters based on prior elections; familiarity
of voters with voting equipment including length of time/number of elections
the equipment has been in use and the voter turnout percentages in such
past elections; familiarity of voters with candidates and issues on the
ballot; demographic characteristics of voters in a precinct or census
block/track including education, prevalence of minority language speakers,
age, etc.; whether absentee by mail or early voting opportunities are
universally available or restricted to specified voters; polling place
staffing levels and/or facility issues including the vote center concept;
and any number of other possible factors.
RESEARCH
METHODOLOGY: Suggest a research design that combines various locations
of field research while also testing groups according to various voter
characteristics and backgrounds. Researchers would observe subjects’
behaviors using various types of voting equipment all loaded with the
same number of electoral contests.
SUMMARY:
Due to the large number/percentage of voters nationwide who encountered
unfamiliar voting equipment for the first time in the 2006 election cycle,
coupled with the expectation of a significantly greater voter turnout
in the 2008 elections, there will again be a high number/percentage of
voters using new voting equipment for the first time in the 2008 elections.
Given the high per unit cost of new voting equipment compared with older
models of equipment, the ratio of voters to each unit of equipment is
likely to be higher than in past elections and may be even higher in future
elections. This factor alone would adversely impact length of time voters
must wait to cast a ballot. Findings might identify the need of various
jurisdictions to purchase additional units of voting equipment prior to
the November 2008 election. Additionally, the need for and value of more
voter outreach and education on use of new voting equipment might be identified
and measured against future outcomes with regard to length of lines at
voting locations. Formulation of a plan to partner with media and community-based
organizations to educate voters about use of voting equipment, steps to
take to prepare for voting, etc. is also anticipated to be an outcome.
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