Arizona election officials are cautioning voters about potential delays at polling places and issues with vote-counting machines due to the use of a two-page ballot for the upcoming election. This is a departure from the usual single-page ballots that the state typically uses, with eight of the state’s 15 counties opting for a longer ballot this time. The increase in ballot length is causing concern as it could lead to longer wait times and potential issues with vote tabulation machines jamming as voters fill out multiple pages.
The state of Arizona has been plagued with election misinformation since the 2020 presidential election, where former President Donald Trump narrowly lost to Democrat Joe Biden. Many public officials in the state continue to deny the results of that election, leading to a deeply partisan atmosphere surrounding election processes. Maricopa County, the most populous county in Arizona, has recently switched to a multipage ballot system, prompting election officials to start educating voters ahead of early voting. The county’s elections director, Scott Jarrett, is urging voters to research races and ballot measures before casting their votes either by mail or in person.
The move to a multipage ballot in Maricopa County has led to an increase in the number of vote centers and voting booths to accommodate the expected high turnout. While some voters, like Republican retiree Jack Balson, worry that the longer ballot may discourage voters, others like first-time independent voter Ahmad Tamini are undeterred by the increased number of questions. Coconino County in northern Arizona is also advising voters to plan ahead, as some areas will receive the two-page, four-sided ballot, potentially contributing to long lines on Election Day.
Maricopa County officials estimate that over a million people will vote early by mail, with a significant number dropping off their ballots on Election Day, and the rest voting in person. Jarrett highlighted that completing the longer ballot could take between nine and 13 minutes for most voters, with some possibly taking up to two hours. He also warned about the possibility of vote tabulation machines jamming due to the two-page ballot system and assured that poll workers are receiving additional training to address any issues that may arise. The goal is to ensure a smooth and efficient voting process for all voters in Maricopa County.
The longer ballot in Arizona’s most populous county has sparked concerns about delays at polling places and potential issues with vote-counting machines. With the increased length comes the need for voters to plan ahead and research their choices before casting their votes. Arizona’s history of election misinformation and partisan politics adds an extra layer of complexity to the upcoming election. However, election officials are working to educate voters and ensure a fair and efficient voting process despite the challenges posed by the multipage ballot system. Voters are encouraged to be patient and prepared as they navigate the longer ballot and participate in the democratic process.
