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This month I want to talk about the new voting machines that those of you that voted in the Primary or have participated in Early Voting have already experienced.
Late last year all three branches of election services came together along with County Administration and Commissioners to purchase an entire new fleet of voting machines. It was important to move with this purchase to go thru one General Election prior to next years’ Presidential Election. Some might ask why?
Presidential Elections generally have the largest of turnouts. Going thru a complete election cycle will give all of us an opportunity to make sure we are all at the top of our game for 2024. The old fleet of machines have been retired, they served Atlantic County for 20 plus years.
Getting parts was becoming a problem and the technology is nothing like what is now 20 years newer. The new machines are known as ES&S, Election Systems and Software. ES&S are one of the two voting machines which are approved for use in New Jersey. The cost of the new machines were slightly over 3.6 million dollars.
The new machines will serve our County for many years to come and will provide safe and secure elections. Atlantic County fully meets all of the State requirements of having a paper back up and can provide an auditable record.
The machines to me are like a large iPad. Reading and seeing will be with ease as the fonts can be enlarged if need be. You can also view the candidates that you have voted for on a paper record prior to casting your vote.
At the completion of the election there are several records of the results all of which can be audited to ensure everything is proper.
ES&S has been a part of elections for nearly 40 years and their products and solutions continue to capture accurate voter intent, reduce waste, improve accessibility and protect elections from outside threats. They have partnered with the Department of Homeland Security to enhance industry best practices.
ES&S also has a 4.63 rating out of a possible 5 for their overall satisfaction. There will many places that the machines will be demonstrated throughout Atlantic County over the next few months. If you have the opportunity, take a minute to go see it for yourself. If you’re like me I think you will like it. Lastly remember there are several ways to vote. Whether you choose to Vote by Mail, Early Vote or Vote on Election Day it is important that your voice is heard.
As always if you have any questions please feel free to call out office at 609-625-4011.
Joseph J. Giralo
Atlantic County Clerk
Mays Landing, N.J.
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