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I had an opportunity to observe a demonstration of the assistive voting devices that are scheduled to be deployed around Hennepin County in time for the September primary elections.  Unlike other, more notorious electronic voting machines, this model still uses a paper ballot; the ballot is fed into the machine and marks it up according to the voter's choices.  The device should be particularly helpful to voters with visual impairments, as it allows users to magnify the ballot, display it in high contrast, or have the ballot read to them through a pair of headphones.  I only hope that the election judges receive adequate training on how to help voters use the thing.  Not to stereotype election judges, but I'm imagining some nice old lady trying to show someone how to use the device and getting completely befuddled in the process. 

 

I probably won't be using the device, as the only alternative means of input is with a sip-and-puff device, which doesn't really work for me.  While I know I can always request assistance from two election judges, I usually employ my nurse as a scribe.  After all, my politics are hardly a secret to anyone. 

Don't you have an absentee ballot?
I do. they send it to my house every election. If your handicapped you don't have to go down to the official place of polling. they will mail it to your house and then you mail it back to them (usually being the library.) It's much easier for me, and I still get to voice my opinion. I've been doing it for years. I haven't missed a vote yet. Last year they sent me a letter letting me know that the county was updating the voting booths in the county and asked me for my opinion about what would make it easier. You should of seen the letter I wrote. (I could write a novel if they let me!)

usually its (the poll) held in the firehouse, which is on main street in town and it is so hard to get a parking spot, believe it or not, there are no handicapped spots all along main street in town. (which totally defeats the blue sticker hanging from my rear view mirror.) then theres' the curb (I can't get up the curb by myself), the only handicapped ramp is too far away.
I always say "Come on people! It's 2006! Not 1806!" the world should be alot more handicapped accessible than it is. buildings should have to(or better yet WANT TO) comply. When I go to most public places I hope they have a handicapped stall in the bathroom and I pray it's adequate.

Also, i think when they ask people to vote they should have a paper that explains exactly what they are asking for . You know the part that asks you to vote or veto "section 145 part A."
I think most people shy away from voting because they don't really know what the vote is exactly for. And I really think alot of people don't know what the word "levy" means. I think it's worded in a way that makes it hard for people to comprehend.
The best is when they ask to vote for "town secretary" and there is only one person running for that position. I think that's funny.

well, I think I babbled on enough.