1. = BALLOT. Also BALLOT. BLANK UNUSED 2. A "ballot never placed in the ballot box." S.D. Rules §5:02:16:00(2).
What is unvoted ballot?
The term Unvoted Ballot refers to a ballot that has been issued, prepared, or available for use but has not been marked and cast by a voter. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is unvoted ballot used with ballots?
In election administration, Unvoted Ballot is applied according to its defined purpose: a ballot that has been issued, prepared, or available for use but has not been marked and cast by a voter. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election. The exact process can differ by office, election type, and jurisdiction.
Why does unvoted ballot matter for ballot handling?
Understanding Unvoted Ballot matters because the concept can affect election administration, voter participation, legal decisions, or resilience. In this context, it refers to a ballot that has been issued, prepared, or available for use but has not been marked and cast by a voter.
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1. = BALLOT. Also BALLOT. BLANK UNUSED 2. A "ballot never placed in the ballot box." S.D. Rules §5:02:16:00(2).
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Unvoted Ballot. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/unvoted-ballot
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