BBV Experts: I'm voting in Maryland tomorrow and need advice.

[Bertha Venation]

As you know, Maryland's switched to all touch-screen voting. See http://www.mdvotes.org/

Do I have ANY recourse if I want a record of my vote? I rec'd an email from True Majority today, suggesting that voters request a paper ballot. The email reads in part, "Maryland Board of Elections administrator Linda Lamone told the legislature that provisional ballots (i.e., paper) would be available at the polls if machines don't count the votes accurately. The studies show the machines can't be trusted, so ask pollworkers for a provisional ballot when you go to vote."

I am afraid of confrontation. I get very, very nervous, and I can't control the fact that my face turns an alarming shade of red. However, my fear doesn't mean I will not ask for a paper ballot.

But what do I say when they try to reassure me that my vote will be counted? I do not trust these things. I think someday it might be safe to vote this way, if there's a record the voter can take away and if there's a verifiable recount method. But I don't trust that my vote will be counted tomorrow. What do I say to my precinct board without raising a ruckus and without fainting from anxiety?

And then, what if, in spite of Lamone's promise to the legislature, my board does NOT have any paper provisional ballots? The TM email says to call the election board -- well, dammit, that's all well and good, but TM does not know my boss. I can't be late to work.

Talking points, anyone? I fear this confrontation, but I'm damn sure going to stand up. But I'd sure like to take a little help along with me.

[Bertha Venation]

1. And another thing:

If they do give me a paper ballot, I don't really have any guarantee that that vote will be counted, do I?

[Bertha Venation]

2. if you've time and are so inclined, see this report

http://www.elections.state.md.us/pdf/voting_system_security_action_plan.pdf

BBV experts, what do you think?

[Andy_Stephenson]

3. Get red faced Get Mad

I hate confrontation...but on this issue we need to be mad and assertive. After all it is our vote we are tlaking about. If you are able to have a provisional ballot...by god have one. If they try to dissuade you refer them to the hopkins report.

Andy

[gristy]

4. I have one suggestion

Bring one or two like-minded friends with you. They should remain quiet during your "discussions" with election officials, but they should be there to provide moral and physical (they can catch you if you faint!) support and they will be important witnesses to what is said. When it is all over you should each write down as best you can remember what occurred and what was said. Maybe you should each write down what happened independently from each other. Keep in mind I'm no lawyer.

May the force be with you. Good Luck!

[Andy_Stephenson]

6. If you see anything at all report it

to black box voting.org

[GregD]

5. Here is some help

Kevin Zeese at http://www.TrueVoteMD.org has led an effective fight for months. Contact them, you will likely get a reply, and I will also ask him to respond here if possible.