Washington, Unicoi Counties to Debut New Voting Machines
TRI-CITIES, Tenn. – Election officials in Tennessee are gearing up for an important milestone on Super Tuesday in March, as voters across the state head to the polls to cast their votes in the primary elections. Amongst the preparations, Washington and Unicoi counties are set to debut new voting machines that have been approved by the Washington County Commission.
Efforts are in full swing to ensure the new voting machines are running smoothly and efficiently. These machines have been designed with improved readability and user-friendliness in mind, making the voting process more accessible for all. To ensure their efficacy, Washington County Election Commission Chairman Gary McAllister and other commissioners spent Wednesday morning thoroughly testing a few of the early voting machines.
The new machines in both Washington and Unicoi counties will provide voters with an added level of assurance, thanks to their paper trail feature. After filling out their electronic ballot, a paper ballot will automatically print under a glass screen for voters to review and confirm that their choices have been accurately recorded.
Sarah Fain, the Administrator of Elections for Unicoi County, emphasizes that the introduction of these new machines will not only improve the overall voting experience but also enhance transparency. Voters can now physically review the paper ballot to ensure that their votes are correctly printed.
As Tennessee gears up for a busy election year, with elections scheduled for March, August, and November, election officials want to assure voters of the safety and security of the process. Unicoi County Election Administrator Sarah Fain encourages voters to have confidence in the new voting machines, reminding them that a machine is set up before elections, enabling voters to witness the process firsthand.
Chairman McAllister confidently declares that voters should expect a safe and secure election, highlighting that Tennessee ranks number one in election integrity and expressing his belief that Washington County leads the way.
Important dates to remember for Tennessee’s primary election include the voter registration deadline on February 5 and the early voting period from February 14 to 27.
The arrival of new voting machines in Washington and Unicoi counties marks a significant step forward for the election process in Tennessee. With improved usability and a reliable paper trail, these machines aim to enhance the overall experience for voters, ultimately contributing to a safer and more transparent democratic process.
As election officials continue their tireless preparations and the primary election draws closer, Tennesseans can eagerly anticipate a smooth voting process, guided by secure and user-friendly machines.
Readers who have any questions about the upcoming elections can reach out to their local election offices, who will be available to provide guidance and support.
