An "official ballot that has been damaged to the extent that it is not possible to determine the choice the voter intended to make. There are two kinds of mutilated official ballots: (1) A ballot that is mutilated and not cast. In this case, the mutilated ballot may be exchanged for a new one ... (2) A ballot that is mutilated and cast. A mutilated cast ballot is to be counted in the same manner as a spoiled cast ballot." 25 C.F.R. §81.1(l)
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An "official ballot that has been damaged to the extent that it is not possible to determine the choice the voter intended to make. There are two kinds of mutilated official ballots: (1) A ballot that is mutilated and not cast. In this case, the mutilated ballot may be exchanged for a new one ... (2) A ballot that is mutilated and cast. A mutilated cast ballot is to be counted in the same manner as a spoiled cast ballot." 25 C.F.R. §81.1(l)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Mutilated Ballot. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 15, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/mutilated-ballot
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