Did you have an issue voting at the polls? Tell us.
Ballot issues are being reported at polling sites in the City of Rye and across Westchester County. Voting machines are not accepting the paper ballots but poll workers are apparently collecting the ballots in designated board of election bags (so people are still able to vote).
News 12 reported on the issue just before 7 am on Tuesday, saying the County Board of Elections said voting is continuing despite the issues. Ballots are being placed in orange bags.
County officals have not returned our request for comment.
Mike Lawler (R), who is in a competitive election in a our neighboring congressional district, NY-17, posted online early Tuesday morning: “There is a problem with every ballot scanner in Westchester County. We do not yet know the exact cause of the issue, whether it is the ballot or the machine. The Board of Elections is working with their vendors to resolve it. However, every ballot will be counted. Stay on line and vote. Do not leave the polling place without voting.”
Some group and some towns and in Westchester County have been publishing messages encouraging voters to make sure they still go to the polls and vote.
- The Town of Lewisboro: “It is Election Day and unfortunately there is a system wide glitch with the voting machines in Westchester County. The Board of Elections is working to rectify this issue. In the meantime you can still cast your vote at your polling location. The inspectors will provide you with a ballot and will then place your ballot in an orange bag until this has been rectified. Polls are open from 6 am to 9 pm.”
- Town of North Salem: “Happy Election Day! There is a system wide issue with the voting machines. The machines are not accepting the ballots at this point in time. If you go to a polling location, they will check you in and provide you with a ballot. Your ballot will be placed in an orange bag until Westchester County Board of Elections is able to fix the system wide issue. Please do not go to another polling location. Polls are open from 6am to 9pm.”
- League of Women Voters of N.Y.S.: “We are aware of a situation in Westchester County where voting machines are down throughout the county. Poll workers are correctly allowing voters to fill out a paper emergency ballot, which is placed in a secure bag. Your vote will count. If a person would rather use a machine – and has time – they can return once the machines are fixed. If a voter has any questions or concerns, call 866-OUR-VOTE hotline. Lawyers are ready to assist you in multiple languages.”
- Susan Cacace, Westchester County District Attorney: “It’s Election Day! Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Make your voices heard by casting your ballot. If you see anything suspicious or have concerns about election-related misconduct, call the New York State Attorney General’s Election Protection Hotline at 866-390-2292.
