Anchorage Assembly considers hand counting ballots to restore election integrity

In a passionate address during the Anchorage Assembly meeting on January 21, 2025, resident Sherry Trezak raised urgent concerns about election integrity, calling for a return to hand-counting ballots for municipal elections. Trezak, representing District 2, highlighted a growing distrust in the electoral process, exacerbated by recent political events and technological vulnerabilities, including significant internet outages that have plagued the area.

Trezak emphasized that the community's faith in elected leaders is waning, citing claims of election fraud from both major political parties in recent years. She argued that the reliance on machines for counting votes, which depend on external power sources, poses risks that could undermine the electoral process. "We need to work on an ordinance that institutes hand counting ballots for municipal elections," she stated, advocating for a method that she believes would foster unity and trust among voters.

The assembly members acknowledged Trezak's comments, with several expressing gratitude for the hard work of their colleagues and the mayor's team. Notably, Mr. Martinez reminded attendees of the upcoming election on April 1, urging potential candidates to file their nominations promptly.

As the assembly moves forward, the call for hand-counted ballots may spark further discussions on election security and community engagement in Anchorage, reflecting a broader national conversation about trust in democratic processes.