Facing election scrutiny, Texas prepares for Nov. 5 with paper ballots and strengthened security [Video]

TX – Sign up for the We the Texans newsletter to receive twice-monthly updates on our year-long initiative dedicated to boosting civic engagement and chronicling how democracy is experienced in Texas.

In September, Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Doinoff watched as test ballots were scanned while also fielding questions from a public observer attentively watching with a clipboard in hand.

The public test is one of many requirements and procedures local election officials and workers in Texas follow to ensure free and fair elections. Despite all assurances, election workers continue to face increased public scrutiny in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s misinformation campaign following his loss in 2020.

This year, Texas election officials are prepared to take on what some say may be the biggest threat to elections — more misinformation— with an old-school tool: paper ballots. Whether by hand or by making their selections on a touchscreen machine, most Texans will mark and cast paper ballots …