Election officials preparing for record turnout

The Maryland Association of Election Officials (MAEO) is excited about the anticipated large voter turnout for the November 4, 2008 Presidential General Election.  MAEO is working in conjunction with local boards to create a positive voter experience.  Preparations include developing a strategy to minimize lines for voters, and continuing to employ trained, skilled and knowledgeable Election Judges at the polls to assist the voters on Election Day. 

“The Local Boards of Election are working with the State Board of Elections to acquire more voting machines and electronic poll books to accommodate the increased turnout,” Mickley noted.  “We have a job to do – and we’ll be ready on November 4.”

Recent media attention has continued to dwell on past problems with long lines at the polling places, while MAEO and its local board members focus on successfully addressing Election issues.  MAEO points to the successful February 12, 2008 Presidential Primary, which also had a very high voter turnout.

Election Officials have analyzed voter registration and turnout trends at every polling place across the state to identify where to most effectively utilize additional equipment.  Methods to manage anticipated high voter turnout include:

• Deploying additional voting units and electronic pollbooks;
• Increasing the number of Election Judges;
• Distributing specimen ballots statewide to help voters prepare to vote;
• Providing extra chairs for the elderly or disabled; and
• Promoting voting between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. which our research shows to be the most efficient time to vote.

Local Election Boards are implementing many innovative plans to meet the unique needs of their jurisdictions, including greeters, handing out specimen ballots to voters so they can review the ballot while in line instead of at the voting unit, and posting maps at the polling places so voters can make sure they are at the correct polling place.  Local Election Boards are increasing their voter outreach efforts.

“Maryland voters are excited about this election and so are we. Marylanders should feel proud that so many of their friends and neighbors plan to vote.” Mickley concluded. 

Look for future voting tips from the Maryland Association of Election Officials.