A ballot that is not to be counted because of a statutory provision. "A ballot on which a voter has clearly manifested an intention to make a distinguishing mark or to mark the ballot in a manner inconsistent with an honest purpose or to act in a fraudulent manner is void." Me. Rev. Stat. §21-A-696(5). "If a ballot is found to have been voted for a greater number of names for any one office than the number of persons required to fill the office, or if the title of the office is erased, the ballot shall be considered void as to all the names designated to fill such office, but no further." Va. Code §24.2-663.
What is void ballot?
The term Void Ballot refers to a ballot that is cancelled, invalidated, spoiled, or otherwise designated not to be counted under the rules governing the election process. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is void ballot used with ballots?
In election administration, Void Ballot is applied according to its defined purpose: a ballot that is cancelled, invalidated, spoiled, or otherwise designated not to be counted under the rules governing the election process. 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 void ballot matter for ballot handling?
Understanding Void Ballot matters because the concept can affect election administration, voter participation, legal decisions, or resilience. In this context, it refers to a ballot that is cancelled, invalidated, spoiled, or otherwise designated not to be counted under the rules governing the election process.
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A ballot that is not to be counted because of a statutory provision. "A ballot on which a voter has clearly manifested an intention to make a distinguishing mark or to mark the ballot in a manner inconsistent with an honest purpose or to act in a fraudulent manner is void." Me. Rev. Stat. §21-A-696(5). "If a ballot is found to have been voted for a greater number of names for any one office than the number of persons required to fill the office, or if the title of the office is erased, the ballot shall be considered void as to all the names designated to fill such office, but no further." Va. Code §24.2-663.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Void Ballot. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/void-ballot
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