NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Early voting is supposed to be more convenient, but some in Tennessee say a problem with the touchscreen machines is making things more difficult.
Voters have reported the problem in both Davidson and Shelby Counties. Officials said those who are using their fingers to cast their ballot on the touchscreen machines have reported their vote not registering, and instead, “jumping” to a different candidate.
Memphis state Rep. Antonio Parkinson told News 2 he and other lawmakers have received multiple complaints from voters who experienced the issue.
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“When you have constituents that come out from the voting polls and they tell you that this is what’s happening, there’s a real concern in their face and in their voice about the process,” Rep. Parkinson said.
Davidson County election administrator Jeff Roberts told News 2 the problem is new, but, it’s not related to the integrity of the machines—which are all carefully tested prior to being put out at polling locations. However, officials’ decision to not distribute the plastic stir sticks voters can use to make their selections this election is an attempt at being more environmentally conscious.