Statement from the Leadership of the
New Jersey Legislature
(TRENTON) — We have listened to the public debate surrounding ballot design in New Jersey, read the letter from the Attorney General of March 17th, and have seen reports of the hearing in the United States District Court on Monday, March 18th. We have previously understood New Jersey’s ballot design law to be one that has withstood scrutiny from the New Jersey Supreme Court and has been in place for at least 80 years.
As many involved in the legal process have pointed out, there is longstanding precedent that the Legislature has the authority to determine the law regarding ballot design and the appropriate discretion used by county clerks. Accordingly, the proper authority to consider modifications is the Legislature.
As leaders, we have a demonstrated record of working in a bipartisan way on issues regarding voting rights and the transparency of counting ballots, and we are prepared to work in a bipartisan manner to ensure public trust in a transparent and democratic process in New Jersey.
We are committed to beginning a public process on ballot design in New Jersey, including a thorough and thoughtful review of other states, as well as a process that involves input from the public.
Senate President Nicholas Scutari
Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin
Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio
In an effort to make voting more accessible and user-friendly for New Jersey residents, legislators in the state are currently working on redesigning ballots for voters. The goal of this initiative is to ensure that ballots are clear, easy to read, and intuitive for all voters, regardless of their age or level of education.
One of the main issues that legislators are hoping to address with the redesign of ballots is the confusion that can arise from the current layout and design. Many voters have reported difficulty in understanding the ballot and navigating through it, which can lead to mistakes or even disenfranchisement. By creating a more user-friendly ballot, legislators hope to increase voter turnout and ensure that every vote is counted accurately.
Another important aspect of the ballot redesign is making sure that it is accessible to all voters, including those with disabilities. This may involve incorporating features such as larger font sizes, clearer instructions, and audio options for voters who are visually impaired. By making ballots more inclusive, legislators aim to ensure that every voter has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.
In addition to improving the design of the ballot itself, legislators are also considering implementing new technology to enhance the voting experience. This could include electronic voting machines that provide voters with a digital interface to mark their choices, as well as online resources for voters to research candidates and issues before casting their ballots.
Overall, the redesign of ballots in New Jersey is a crucial step towards making the voting process more accessible and transparent for all residents. By creating a ballot that is easy to understand and navigate, legislators hope to empower voters and strengthen democracy in the state. With these changes in place, New Jersey residents can look forward to a more efficient and inclusive voting experience in future elections.
