South Carolina State Election Commission’s Brian Leach Published in Academic Journal on Voter Error Detection

COLUMBIA, SC (March 20, 2025) – The South Carolina State Election Commission (SEC) is proud to announce that Brian Leach, the Information Technology Manager for the SEC, was published in the December 2024 edition of the Journal of Election Administration Research & Practice. His article, titled, “Reflections on ‘Can Voters Detect Errors on Their Printed Ballots? Absolutely,” includes insights into voter error detection on printed ballots, a critical need for election security and integrity.

Leach’s article reviews a study that looks at whether voters can spot errors on their printed ballots when using Ballot Marking Devices (BMDs). Leach highlights how voters can identify errors with near-perfect accuracy when given guidance, and makes suggestions for effective solutions, like better signage and reminders, to improve election accuracy overall.

"Brian’s work is a testament to the South Carolina State Election Commission’s commitment to improving election security and voter confidence. We are proud to see his expertise recognized on a national stage.” said Executive Director of the SEC, Howie Knapp.

For more information on election security & integrity, visit scVOTES.gov.

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