While most of us agree that votes should be cast in private, the problem comes when the votes are counted secretly, opaquely, on machines we cannot examine, leaving the public unable to assure that the vote count is accurate.
What is happening in Minnesota right now, the Franken-Coleman recount, is as-close-to-perfect (compared to anywhere else in America) example of the way votes should be counted. They're taking their time and doing everything to assure that each vote is counted as the voter intended. While the loser may still fight the decision -and probably will - the process is light years ahead of what goes on in virtially any other state. Think about the system you have in your own state. Would an audit or recount even be possible there?
The trick is not to wait for such close elections to do an initial partial recount or audit. It should happen everywhere to keep the process as honest and transparent as we can make it. Only that way will true voter confidence be restored.
With the way elections are run now, how do we really know that not-close elections were really not close?
Weigh in
If you closely observed this most recent election, you probably have an opinion about the way it 'works'. Here's a chance to weigh in with your opinion.
http://www.change.org/ideas/view/hand_counted_paper_ballots_now
Voting is going on right now - until midnight, 12/31. There's room to make a comment as well.
Speak up and speak your mind!
