Dear Board of Elections,
Thank you for your recent letter inviting me to use an absentee ballot. As a totally blind voter, I could put the ballot on my computer's optical scanner and read all the information, but then how would I be able to find the correct little box for my "X"? Once scanned into my computer, I could mark my choice and print it out; however, then it becomes a facsimile and a bit illegal to mail in! If I had someone assist me to put my "X" on my selection, it is no longer a secret ballot.
I suspect that one machine could not possibly be able to meet all the needs of all the people with handicapping conditions. Why not develop a system whereby one could vote from their home computer or touch pad telephone using security PINs or secure electronic registration methods, such as are used for e-banking? Each functioning person with a handicapping condition already has adaptive equipment for his/her needs. Others can probably use a telephone. That would mean no transportation barriers; no use of fossil fuels; no trees felled for paper; and complete confidentiality. It might even cost a whole lot less.
Thank you for your concern; however, until such a phone system is available, I'll continue to struggle with the handicap accessible machine that the Walworth polling location utilizes, in spite of its annual problems. One of these years we'll get it right.
Sincerely,
Kate Chamberlin