CAS Conducts Online Voting For 2005 Elections

For the third consecutive year, the CAS electorate will have the option of submitting their ballots online during the CAS elections. Fellows can still vote with the traditional paper ballot, but will be able to vote online if they register in advance. Fellows who previously registered for online voting do not need to register to vote online again in 2005.

Feedback from those voting online in 2003 and 2004 was positive with many commenting on the ease of using the online system. Online voters can vote by visiting the CAS Web Site, clicking to the ballot, recording votes, and submitting the ballot. Voters receive an e-mail confirmation that the ballot has been cast.

Online voting has proven to be faster and less expensive than using paper ballots. The online voting process includes all of the safeguards currently in place with the paper balloting system. Voters will have the ability to double-check their votes prior to final submission. Voter privacy is also maintained. Finally, safeguards are in place to disallow repeat voting.

Fellows who are not already registered for online voting must complete the online registration form to specify that they prefer to cast their ballots online. Fellows who register to vote online will not receive a paper ballot through the mail. The registration form and ballot are hosted on the same system, so if Fellows are able to register, they should be able to vote.

Online voter registration will open on May 2. Fellows can specify their method of voting and find additional details through the Election Information page.