SYRACUSE, N.Y (NCC NEWS) — Voting has always been a cornerstone of American democracy, and this year, it’s more significant than ever as record numbers of people head to the polls.
While traditional in-person voting remains popular, early and mail-in voting have surged, raising questions and sparking debates about the accuracy and security of these methods.
The increase in mail-in ballots has been praised for expanding access but has also faced criticism from those worried about potential issues with reliability.
Critics like Pat Dorado voiced their skepticism over the process. “I’m a little touchy about the subject because of what one of our nominees for president is going to make a complaint about it,” Dorado said. “Whether it is 100 percent accurate or 99 percent accurate, he’s going to have a problem with it. Boo.”
In-person voting has its flaws too. Long wait times, logistical challenges, and potential technical issues can complicate the process. This is where poll watchers, such as Woodruff Carroll, come into play. They aim to ensure that election proceedings are transparent and secure.
“Oh my God, I don’t know,” Carroll said. “I just threw my arms up and said the only thing we can do with this is stick with what we got ’cause we always done it this way. We gotta have a system that’s got to be hitting. No matter what system you come up with, there’s ways to scam it.”
Despite these concerns, voters remain committed, whether by standing in line at polling stations or mailing their ballots. The expectation of large voter turnout has brought a renewed focus on election integrity, with officials working to reassure the public of fair and accurate results.
However, even with these efforts, experts caution that it may take several days to finalize the results, particularly in swing states where vote counts are often closer.
The increased use of mail-in ballots means that tallying could extend beyond election night. Patience will be required as election officials complete their counts to ensure that every vote is accounted for accurately.
Video Transcript
Anchor intro: As Election Day unfolds, many voters are rising early to make their voices heard, eager to participate in what is shaping up to be one of the closest races in recent history. With so much on the line, polling stations across the area are buzzing with energy, as people line up to cast their ballots. Here’s Xayvion Perkins with more on the early turnout and the high stakes of today’s election.”
Voice over: “Voting has always been a cornerstone of our democracy, and this year, more people than ever are participating—whether in long lines at polling stations or through mail-in ballots. While early and absentee voting has surged, so too have concerns over the accuracy and security of these methods. The rise of mail-in voting, in particular, has sparked debate, with some questioning its integrity and others arguing it’s essential for broad voter access. Critics like Pat Dorado believe this controversy will only grow in the days after the election.”
Pat Dorado: “I’m a little touchy about the subject because of what one of our nominees for president…is going to make a complaint about it…whether it is 100 percent accurate or 99 percent accurate…he’s going to have a problem with it BOO”
Voice over: “While there are plenty of concerns about mail-in ballots, in-person voting isn’t perfect either. That’s why poll watchers like Woodruff Carroll are here—to help keep the process running smoothly and ensure everything goes as planned.”
Woodruff Carroll: “oh my god, I don’t know, I just threw my arms up and said the only thing we can do with this is stick with what we got cause we always done it this way…we gotta have a system that’s got to be hitting…no matter what system you come up with there’s ways to scam it so”
Xayvion Perkins: “As we know this is a very highly anticipated election and people are voting…more than just going into the polls…the mail in ballot option has exponentially increased over the last few election cycles…while there are errors and trials and tribulations…hopefully some reform will make it a more valid process…live outside blessed sacrament school Xayvion Perkins N-C-C News