Alabama Constitution Section 179 Method of voting
Alabama Constitution – Section 179: Method of Voting (Explained in Detail)
Full Text Summary:
Section 179 of the Alabama Constitution outlines the official method by which votes must be cast in all elections within the state. It establishes the requirement for a secret ballot and mandates that voting shall be done by ballot—ensuring privacy and integrity in the voting process.
Key Provisions and Explanation:
Voting Shall Be by Ballot:
This section mandates that all voting in elections (whether for public office or on ballot measures) must be done using a ballot system.
The term "ballot" refers to a method of voting that allows the voter to mark their choices in private, either on paper or electronically, depending on the system used.
Purpose – Ensuring Secrecy and Fairness:
The ballot method is designed to protect voter privacy, so that no one can see how a person voted. This helps prevent intimidation, coercion, or vote-buying.
It ensures fair and free elections, where citizens can express their political will without fear.
Implications for Voting Technology:
While the original 1901 Constitution referred to paper ballots, this provision has been interpreted to include modern voting methods (such as electronic voting machines), as long as they preserve the principles of a secret ballot.
Alabama law and administrative rules ensure these systems comply with Section 179.
Historical Context:
This section reflects reforms from the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the U.S. to combat voter manipulation and fraud.
It aligned Alabama with the "Australian ballot" system (secret ballot), which became a standard across the United States during that time.
Modern Relevance:
Section 179 continues to be the constitutional basis for regulating voting methods in Alabama.
It ensures that even as voting technology evolves, the requirement for privacy and security remains unchanged.
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