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John Daley ReportingFor many the big story today is not just the elections, but the new gear we're using to do the electing. Some voting watchdogs have been raising red flags about election security for months and they remain unconvinced.
The major concern is that someone could modify election results without leaving a trace. Today that concern was given voice by one prominent Utah candidate, a computer guy none-the-less, who refused to vote on a new electronic voting machine.
As a candidate for U.S. Senate, Democrat Pete Ashdown says he trusts the voters; he voting machines, however, are another story. Today Ashdown, the owner of the internet company X-Mission, voted the old-fashioned way, saying he worries a hacker could modify results without anyone knowing.
Pete Ashdown, (D) Candidate for U.S. Senate: "I know what computers can do, and I know how computers have problems, and I think we should go back to paper and pencil."
Sherrie Swensen, Salt Lake Co. Clerk: "I know that in Salt Lake we've done everything we can to secure this system."
A third of voters in the US, including Utah, are using the new machines. Elections officials say there are numerous security features, such as redundant memory, logic and accuracy tests, numerous audits, training for poll workers and carefully controlled access.
Julio Garcia, Salt Lake Co. Elections Director: "We've gone to extreme measures to do everything we know how to, to protect the system and people's vote."
But there's a rising chorus of complaints about the new machines. Computer scientists, election watchdogs and others say that the machines are not ready for prime time. At best, they say, they're too expensive and at worst they contend the machines could be hacked.
Earlier this year a man named Bruce Funk caused a big funk when he sounded alarm bells about the new devices.
Bruce Funk, Former Emery County Clerk: "I got totally abused I feel like."
The 23-year veteran of Emery County says county commissioners and others pressured him to tow the line. His big concern is that someone with computer knowledge and access to the machines could alter votes.
Bruce Funk, Former Emery County Clerk: "I think the integrity of the election, the integrity of the vote is compromised."
The man in charge of Utah's e-voting transition concedes any machine can be hacked, but says it's highly unlikely.
Gary Herbert, (R) Lt. Governor: "That's why it's important to have security."
This issue looks like one that will live on beyond today. If, here in Utah or elsewhere, there are very close races and disputed results, expect legal challenges and more questions about the new E-voting machines.
