Bexar Ballot Disputes: Experts Cite Touchscreen Issues
Common Cause officials say three reported incidents likely stem from hardware sensitivity rather than machine tampering as early voting ends Friday.
By Alina Marshall ·
Touchscreen sensitivity, not hidden programming, likely caused three recent Bexar County ballot disputes, according to a top Texas policy official.
Emily French, policy director for Common Cause Texas, told reporters that the voting machines in the county are not actively switching voter choices. She explained that the devices often feel less responsive than modern smartphones, which can lead to accidental touches. French compared the experience to using older handheld devices rather than current iPhones. She stated, “The machines are not switching your ballot.”
The comments followed a report by KSAT regarding at least three instances where early voters claimed their selections changed. The alleged switches occurred at the Converse Community Events Center, Wonderland of the Americas, and Macedonia Baptist Church. In each case, voters reported that their choices shifted from Democratic candidates to Republican candidates.
Bexar County Elections Administrator Michele Carew confirmed that the county’s equipment remains secure. Her office is currently communicating with the machine manufacturer to determine if any technical adjustments are necessary. Carew advised voters to notify poll workers immediately if a printed ballot does not match their intended selection.
Political strategists say these incidents occur as groups prepare for potential challenges to the November 3 election results. Michael Sozan, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, said the Trump administration is actively working to create doubt about the election system. He noted, “They appear to be continuing to manufacture lies about the integrity of the elections to enable them ultimately to dispute the valid election results later.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke to reporters in San Antonio on Sunday about the upcoming midterm election. He said Democrats are coordinating the largest voter protection effort in the history of a midterm election. Jeffries emphasized that the American people should decide who holds the majority in the next Congress.
Early voting in the county continues through October 30. Polls will reopen for the general election on November 3. Residents can verify their registration status and find polling locations on the Bexar County Elections Department website. Voters who feel their rights are being infringed upon can call 866-OUR-VOTE for legal advice.
Source: San Antonio Current
