County Clerk confirms 100% paper ballot election process amid integrity discussions

The Utah County Commission meeting held on February 2, 2022, focused on election integrity and the county's voting processes. The meeting began with a statement from the county clerk, who emphasized that Utah County has been using 100% paper ballots since February 2019. The clerk highlighted the decision to cancel a contract with Dominion Voting Systems shortly after taking office, asserting that all ballots, whether mailed, printed at voting locations, or marked remotely by disabled citizens, are paper-based. This approach aims to alleviate concerns about electronic voting machines and ensure transparency in the electoral process.

The clerk also mentioned ongoing efforts to obtain information for a forensic audit from a senator in Arizona, indicating a commitment to exploring all legal avenues to enhance election integrity. However, the lack of response from the senator after five months was noted as a challenge.

Commissioner Lee contributed to the discussion by underscoring the importance of the election process as a cornerstone of democracy. He expressed support for exploring legal options to increase transparency and voter confidence in the electoral system. Lee acknowledged the complexities of legal interpretations surrounding election laws and advocated for proactive measures to ensure that voters feel secure in the integrity of their votes.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue on election integrity and the importance of addressing public concerns. The commissioners expressed their commitment to maintaining a transparent and trustworthy voting process in Utah County.