Harris County Voting Rumors and Misinformation

TO: Concerned Voters

FR: Lane Lewis, Chair

RE: Straight Ticket Voting Rumors

It is that time of year when Republicans pull their tricks and try to keep us from casting our ballot.  Whether it is with forwarded email rumors, outrageous claims on Fox News, or Tea Partiers trying to check your ID at your polling location’s parking lot; know that the Harris County Democratic Party is here to look out for your rights to vote and will ensure that you know how to cast your ballot this Election Day.

You still have the right to early vote as well as vote straight Democratic party.  Some people will tell you otherwise, but they only want to keep us at home and away from the voting booth.

I am dedicated to making sure we quell any rumors and stop any forms of voter intimidation.  If you get a suspect email or flyer, email us or call our office at 713-802-0085.

Provided below are some helpful guidelines for voting in the upcoming election.

What actually happens:

When you mark your electronic or paper  ballot “straight Democratic,” you are  automatically selecting the Democratic candidate in every race with a Democratic candidate.

Are these computer programs reliable?  Yes.

Are they tamper-proof?  No.

That is why Democrats monitor every aspect of the election. Democratic poll workers will be there for early voting and on Election Day, and the HCDP office is always ready to take your call. 

Our goal is to make sure you are able to cast your ballot on Election Day. 

• It is important to remember: if you straight party vote, selecting a specific Democrat on the ballot will actually de-select them.
• Do not pay any attention to viral emails or rumors about the election.
• You get to review every selection you have made before you cast an electronic or personally mail an absentee ballot.
• You can go back and change a mistake on the electronic voting machine until you cast your ballot and you see a little flag appear.
• You can correct a mismarked paper ballot or request a spoiled paper ballot before you mail one in.

Your paper ballot is counted unless you receive a letter saying otherwise. Votes do not get lost or stolen on the Democrats’ watch.

If election officials will not provide you with a regular ballot, then fill out the paperwork and cast a provisional ballot. Provisional ballots are the most powerful tool Democrats have for countering vote-suppression by radical or incompetent GOP state and county officials.

With 31 days until the election, we must be alert and ready to exercise our right to vote. 

Are you in?

Lane Lewis, Chair

P.S.  Be sure to save the HCDP contact information in your phone so you can let us know of rumors or voter intimidation. 

Email: ElectionInfo@hcdp.org

Phone: 713-802-0085