Relative to random placement for candidate names and removal of incumbent information on primary and state ballots
Impact
If enacted, HB 678 would significantly alter how ballots are presented during elections, potentially impacting voter perceptions and decisions. The changes put forth in this bill would be effective starting January 1, 2024, giving election officials time to adapt to the new requirements. This modification in ballot design is expected to encourage democratic participation, as it combats biases that may arise from the ordering of names and the visibility of incumbency on ballots.
Summary
House Bill 678 aims to reform the ballot design for primary and state elections in Massachusetts by requiring the random placement of candidate names. The bill seeks to enhance electoral fairness by ensuring that the order of names does not favor incumbents or specific candidates, thus providing a level playing field for all candidates running for election. Additionally, it stipulates that ballots will no longer indicate whether a candidate is an incumbent, thereby reducing biases that may be inferred by voters due to such designations.
Contention
However, the bill may face contention among political factions. Critics might argue that removing indications of incumbency could disorient voters who prefer to know which candidates are currently holding office. Supporters, on the other hand, believe the measure is necessary to combat entrenched advantages commonly held by incumbents. This debate around incumbent information on ballots highlights the broader discussion about electoral integrity and accessibility in the democratic process.
In nomination of candidates, further providing for casting of lots for position of names upon the primary ballots or ballot labels and notice to candidates; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot and providing for order of candidates on the ballot; and, in Pennsylvania Election Law Advisory Board, providing for ballot order randomization study.
In nomination of candidates, further providing for casting of lots for position of names upon the primary ballots or ballot labels and notice to candidates; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot and providing for order of candidates on the ballot; in voting machines, further providing for demonstration of voting machines; and, in Pennsylvania Election Law Advisory Board, providing for ballot order randomization study.
In election districts and polling places, further providing for equipment and arrangement of polling places, guard rail and number of voting compartments or voting machines; in nomination of candidates, further providing for casting of lots for position of names upon the primary ballots or ballot labels and notice to candidates; and, in ballots, further providing for form of official primary ballot.
Requires computerized drawing system to determine random order of candidate names for each office on primary and general election ballots; provides for drawing to be viewable in person or electronically.