Vote-scanning machine malfunction expected to delay counting in New York’s Westchester County

A technical issue with vote-scanning machines in Westchester County, New York, has prompted a judge to permit the transfer of thousands of paper ballots to a secure warehouse, potentially delaying the counting of votes in a competitive congressional district. The malfunction occurred following a software update made for one municipal contest after machines were prepared and tested.

The affected machines at various locations in Westchester County failed to accept paper ballots on Tuesday due to the programming glitch. As a result, voters were instructed to place completed ballots in bags that would be safeguarded and later processed at the county warehouse under the supervision of representatives from political parties and election officials.

Westchester County is part of New York’s 17th Congressional District, where a competitive race is underway between Republican Rep. Mike Lawler and Democratic candidate Cait Conley. Both candidates urged residents to cast their ballots despite the issue, assuring that all votes would be counted. While Lawler acknowledged the situation caused frustration, delays, and confusion, he emphasized that there were no attempts to manipulate the process.

Local resident Toni Chrystal expressed unease after voting, questioning why the ballots were not tested before the election, especially in a wealthy county like Westchester.