Voting Machine

Change was on the ballot for Choctaw County voters today.

Change was on the ballot for choctaw county voters today..

The county has recently moved forward with a new electronic ballot system.

Our cash matlock joins us live in the studio with more on the the new voting machines.

"voting works" started as a trial run in june of 2019.

Now, the new machines are county-wide, and they're receiving mostly positive feedback.

"i love it" that was the general response when voters at the choctaw county community center were asked about the new system.

For many, this was their third time using the program.

"poll workers love them.

They're much easier to manage.

They're, as you saw, they're in cases that are like little brief cases that just open up.

Everything is there.

It's quick and easy."

The convenience is key, but voters also appreciate that the process is much more private.

"it gives a secure paper ballot to the people so they can see who they voted for."

"that way you know your votes are actually casts as you predicted you wanted them to be."

According to a recent poll by gallup.com, only one third of americans feel like their vote is counted accurately.

Voting works is a non-profit organization hoping to change this mind-set.

"they were looking for a place that would work with them and was interested in being a part of something from the ground up.

So, we feel very fortunate to have been able to be a part of it, and we fee like it's a very, very sound effective system."

But even with the technological advances, some voters like to take care of things the old fashion way.

"i like hand-written votes."

"there's too much change going on now."

One thing they can agree on-- the importance of having your voice heard.

"those that complain really have no right to complain because they didn't voice their vote through voting, and they need to know that it's that important to get out and make the effort to vote."

"my heritage goes back to the beginning of this country during the revolution and everything else, and if you want to be an american, you should partake.

The first amendment says you have free speach."

Polls will remain open until 7 pm.

If you do not have a photo id, you may cast an affidavit ballot as long as you provide a photo id to the circuit clerk within five business days.