In recent federal elections, claims of irregularities and fraud raise concerns among voters who want to be certain that their ballots count.
One reader seemed to share that concern when they reached out to the Herald-Leader with this question through our Know Your Kentucky series feedback form: “Is it possible to request a photocopy of your filled out and submitted Kentucky ballot form?”
It’s an interesting question, and one we posed to the offices of the Kentucky Secretary of State and the Fayette County Clerk. Both officials are responsible for managing elections at the state and local level, respectively.
Can I get a copy of my voted ballot in Kentucky?
Put simply, the answer to this question is no.
This is because, in American elections, ballots are meant to be kept secret . The goal is for voters to have the freedom to vote however they wish — free from fear, coercion or intimidation.
In fact, as explained by Kentucky Secretary of State spokesperson Michon Lindstrom in an email, “we have no way of knowing whose ballot is whose once they cast their vote.”