In a recent government meeting, community member Deb Biro raised significant concerns regarding the security and integrity of the electoral process in Northampton County. Biro highlighted the fragmented locations of the election department, advocating for a centralized facility to enhance security. She referenced a previous discussion led by Mr. McClure, emphasizing the need for a more secure voting environment.
Biro expressed skepticism about the current voting methods, particularly mail-in ballots and drop boxes, which she argued are less secure. She pointed out that only 14 out of 67 counties in Pennsylvania still utilize drop boxes, questioning their necessity in Northampton County when voters have access to mailboxes and other voting options.
The discussion turned to the November 2023 election, where Biro detailed a series of procedural issues that arose, including confusion over ballot switching and inconsistent instructions given to voters. She noted that the election failed to meet the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) requirements for manual counting and error thresholds, raising alarms about the reliability of the election results.
Biro called for clarity on voter eligibility, challenging a statement made by the election board president that suggested anyone who pays taxes is eligible to vote. She stressed the importance of recognizing and addressing local electoral issues to ensure a transparent and secure upcoming presidential election.
The meeting concluded with a motion to enter an executive session to discuss potential litigation, which passed unanimously. The discussions reflect ongoing concerns about electoral integrity and the need for proactive measures to ensure voter confidence in the electoral process.