Since the 2006 election when human error prompted a recount and reversal of Vermont’s election for auditor, 30 more Vermont communities now have vote-tabulating machines bringing the total to 103.
But some communities still favor tradition over technology and will continue to hand-count the votes in tomorrow’s election.
Hardwick Town Clerk Alberta Miller remembers two years ago when she hand-counted ballots well past midnight.
Statewide, the results turned into a win for Republican incumbent Randy Brock. But after an $80,000 recount, Democrat Thomas Salmon, the current auditor, had won.
Since then, thanks to federal grants and state guidance, more Vermont communities have obtained voting machines that promise quicker, more accurate results.