For Immediate Release: Wednesday, September 13, 2006
“Yesterday, a mistake by the Montgomery County Board of Elections in neglecting to include computer cards needed to operate County voting machines resulted in disenfranchisement, confusion, and frustration at polling places throughout the County.
“The right to vote is critical to the functioning of American democracy. Yesterday, many Montgomery County residents were unable to cast their morning ballots. Some returned to vote later. Others did not. The numbers, though not insignificant, are less important than the clear result – this was not ‘Good Government’ at work. It was, in fact, worse than what happened in Clarksburg.
“We ask our Board of Elections something simple: to be ready for balloting on two days every two years. The County Board of Elections failed the citizens of Montgomery County in discharging this duty.
“I believe acts must have consequences. I believe those who hold the public trust must be accountable for their performance.
“I know that there will be a meeting of the Council’s Management & Fiscal Policy Committee at 9 AM Monday morning, September 18, convened by Committee chair and Council Vice President Marilyn Praisner, to hear from the Board of Elections about these mistakes.
“I believe, however, we know well enough what occurred already, from the statements of the Board of Elections people themselves, to draw some conclusions.
“That’s why I’m joining County Executive Doug Duncan today in calling for the resignation of Board of Elections president Nancy Dacek and Board of Elections director Margaret Jurgenson.
“I – and many others – have lost all confidence in their ability to make sure the November balloting, eight weeks from yesterday, goes absolutely smoothly and to ensure that everyone gets the chance to vote. We need new management now.”