New Voting Machines Make Debut In Oklahoma Primary Election

You'll be using new voting machines when you cast your ballot in this primary election. In-person absentee voting began Friday and voters seem to like the new system.

The new voting machines were used last month for city and school elections, but this is their first debut in a statewide election.

Early voters say they've hardly noticed the difference at the polls.

The new voting machines have extra security features and allow voters with disabilities cast audio versions of ballots.

"The machine is really easy, it doesn't jam up. You just stick it in there any kind of way and it will take it and read it and count it," said Tulsa voter Gloria Hiriams.

The new system helps election officials get results to voters more quickly.

"It's going really well. It's been a steady stream of people. We've had about fifty an hour coming through," said Patty Bryant of the Tulsa County Election Board.

The ballots are also slightly different.

"The voter is not going to see that much difference except that instead of drawing a line, they are going to fill out a box," Bryant said.

The Tulsa County Election Board is reminding voters about the law requiring identification at the polls.

You need to bring your voter registration card or any government issued photo ID with an expiration date on it.

One of the most common questions the election board has received has nothing to do with the new system or requirements.

"The biggest thing is that the Democrats didn't know that they were voting also. They thought it was just a Republican primary," Byant said.

Beyond that, the election board hasn't heard of many voter concerns.

"No trouble, no problems, you need to know who you are going to vote for, know the questions and you're done," Hiriams said.

Early voting is Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Monday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Tulsa County Election Board, 555 North Denver Avenue.

Precincts are open Tuesday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mailed in absentee ballots must get to the Election Board before polls close Tuesday.

01/09/2012 Related Story: Mock Elections Testing New Oklahoma Voting Machines