The Horry Democratic Party Voter Protection Committee has long encouraged voters to review their ballots three times—a message symbolized by our logo of two hands holding a ballot card.
Here’s what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.
According to the State Election Commission’s Security Booklet (page 13), available in the Resources section at scvotes.gov, voters should review their ballot at three key moments:
- While making selections for each office or question;
- On the review screen before printing the ballot card; and
- On the printed ballot card before inserting it into the scanner.
In South Carolina, voters make selections using a ballot marking device (BMD), which then prints a paper ballot. Before submitting it for scanning and tabulation, it is critical to carefully verify that the printed ballot reflects your intended choices.
A press release on scvotes.gov features SEC Information Technology Manager Brian Leach in an article titled “Reflections on ‘Can Voters Detect Errors on Their Printed Ballots? Absolutely.’” The original research, published in the Journal of Election Administration Research and Practice (2024, 3[1]), reveals chilling findings—linked in the SEC release.
The researchers, along with the SEC, place the responsibility of verifying ballot accuracy squarely on the voter. They emphasize the difference between “cannot detect errors” and “do not detect errors,” underscoring the need for voter vigilance.
But why is this necessary after a voter has already reviewed their selections before printing?
Because, as stated in the study, “BMDs are susceptible to malicious vote-flipping attacks” (p. 54).
The South Carolina Legislature selected a voting system that allows the possibility of such attacks. Add long lines, fatigued poll workers, and various distractions at polling places—and ballots can go unchecked.
Here’s how to protect your vote:
- Vote early when lines are shorter—and take a voting buddy with you.
- Download and bring your sample ballot (available under the “Voters” section at scvotes.gov).
- Be aware: If you select a straight-party ticket, marking a candidate outside that party will override your straight-party choice.
- Take your time. You have the right and the responsibility to review your ballot three times before scanning.
If you detect an error after printing your ballot, notify a poll worker immediately. They will mark the ballot “spoiled,” follow secure storage procedures, and issue you a new ballot. Be sure to follow the full review process again with your replacement ballot.
Together, we can prevent ballot errors and ensure every vote counts as intended.
HCDP Voter Protection Committee
