How can we be confident our vote totals are correct? Because we test our tabulation system at least twice every election. The first test is called a Logic and Accuracy Test and it is conducted prior to the election. The second test is called a Random Batch Audit, which is conducted the morning after each election. Descriptions and examples of these tests are provided below.
Logic & Accuracy Testing
Prior to every election, before actual ballots are tabulated, our tabulation system and the Assisted Voting Unit are tested for accuracy. Using a prescribed matrix of votes, sample ballots are marked, scanned, and then tabulated. The totals from the original matrix are then compared to the tabulated votes to ensure the system is counting ballots accurately. Once the test is successfully completed documents attesting to the tabulation system’s accuracy are signed by elections officials and witnesses. All Logic and Accuracy Tests for elections that include state or federal measures/candidates are overseen by representatives from the Secretary of State’s Office.
To ensure the security of the tabulation, the system is not connected to the internet. Additionally, all tests are open to the public and announced through press releases and on the election calendar of this website. To comply with COVID-19 protocols for safety, all tests and meetings are live-streamed.
This is the video of the Logic and Accuracy test for the November 3, 2020, General Election.
Random Batch Audit
The morning after each election, six batches of tabulated ballots are randomly selected as a post-election test to make sure the tabulation system has counted ballots correctly. The test results are documented and recorded. Just as with the Logic and Accuracy Test, these tests are live-streamed for public viewing.
The Random Batch Audit of the 2020 General Election was performed on November 4, 2020. Below is a video of that live-stream.