Letter to the editor: Run elections like the lottery

Our election system is archaic. Consider the lottery system: Hundreds of millions of entries are recorded, and a winner is known within a few hours. Not only the winner, but also the location where the ticket was purchased, plus all the lesser winners that didn’t quite get all the numbers. A very sophisticated system, and rarely a mistake. And no hacking!

Consider using a sophisticated computer system for our elections. Each eligible voter is provided a card — yes, an ID! — containing photo, name, party affiliation, address, etc., plus a unique number (just like your ballot has when you vote). You use the card to vote, either at a voting machine (located anywhere, like lottery computers) or via a personal computer by entering your number. Once polls are open (any time a state decides), you can vote. Polls can be open as long as each state decides. Your ballot will be customized to your national, state and local races/referendums. Once your ballot is cast, your card (number) cannot be used again in this election. All results will be known the day after the last poll closes.

This is not rocket science. Computer engineers know how to do this. It works for lottery systems.

Those who can’t get to a computer can notify the local elections bureau, and a volunteer (with proper photo ID), friend or relative can bring a wireless computer so they may cast their ballot. With no poll workers, lots of volunteers should be available.

No cheating would be possible. We would be guaranteed a safe and proper election.

Steve Swencki

Hempfield