To the Editor:

There is nothing more important to the health of a democratic society than the integrity of its elections. Votes must be recorded and counted accurately. Computers can be valuable in facilitating this process, but they are prone to both error and fraud: mistakes of programmers, intrusion by hackers, and equipment failure. Invisible electronic ballots can never assure the integrity of an election. 

Whatever electronic voting machines the Bucks County Commissioners decide to purchase must produce a voter-verified paper ballot, which can provide a partial audit, or a complete recount of the election if necessary. Anything less undermines the foundations of our democracy. The average fifth grader can understand this, but it's not clear that our commissioners can. When asked at this morning's public meeting, none of them would acknowledge the necessity of a paper ballot. Perhaps I should reverse the question and ask them to make a case for the safety of invisible ballots. 

Wednesday's commissioners meeting began by honoring Bucks County police chiefs and officers for their courage in keeping our streets and homes safe. I would hope our commissioners could show the same kind of courage when it comes to protecting the integrity of our elections.

Readers who are concerned about the safety of their vote can get more information from the web site of the Coalition for Voting Integrity, and should let the commissioners know how they feel.

Gus Linton, Co-chair, Bucks County Green Party

Perkasie