Reply #18: First of all... [View All]

...the paper trail is not kept by the voter, it is kept in a sealed box as a record of the votes and can be used in a recount.

That's the theory anyway. Now there are some fine points. One, if I was in charge, I'd require 100% of machine votes be counted both ways, as a check on all machine tabulated votes. Two, assuming that the machines were shown valid, I would still require 10% of the votes to be recounted via paper, and the recounts to be chosen randomly -- and that would be in addition to any actual requested recounts by losing candidates. Three, I'd remember what Andy said, and demand "voter verified paper ballots" (he specifically warned against using the term "paper trail" as it has no real legal meaning). Four, don't forget, there is always opportunity for fraud, no matter the method. The trouble with computers is they make it so damned easy.