A cast by a voter whose legitimacy has been questioned. See also BALLOT CODED BALLOT, PROVISIONAL BALLOT.
What is contested ballot?
The term Contested Ballot refers to a ballot whose validity, eligibility, markings, or treatment is disputed and must be resolved under the jurisdiction's challenge, adjudication, or canvassing procedures. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is contested ballot used with ballots?
In election administration, Contested Ballot is applied according to its defined purpose: a ballot whose validity, eligibility, markings, or treatment is disputed and must be resolved under the jurisdiction's challenge, adjudication, or canvassing procedures. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election.
Why does contested ballot matter for ballot handling?
Understanding Contested Ballot matters because the concept can affect election administration, voter participation, legal decisions, or resilience. In this context, it refers to a ballot whose validity, eligibility, markings, or treatment is disputed and must be resolved under the jurisdiction's challenge, adjudication, or canvassing procedures.
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A cast by a voter whose legitimacy has been questioned. See also BALLOT CODED BALLOT, PROVISIONAL BALLOT.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Contested Ballot. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/contested-ballot
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