Edmonton election results delayed by hand-counted ballots as candidates criticize tabulator ban as unnecessary
Edmontonians are facing a wait for the results of their municipal election, as ballots are currently being counted by hand. Edmonton Elections anticipates that preliminary results for councillors and school board trustees will be available by Tuesday.
Election Process Timeline
The counting process began after polls closed on Monday night and will run until 1 a.m. It will then continue at 9 a.m. the following day.
Controversy Over Tabulator Ban
The delay stems from a provincial government ban on electronic voting tabulators in municipal elections, a move enforced last year. Premier Danielle Smith advocated for paper ballots, stating they enhance election security.
Candidates Criticize the Decision
- Tim Cartmell: Criticized the government’s decision, labeling it a financial burden for the city.
- Andrew Knack: Questioned the necessity of the tabulator ban, arguing it leads to longer wait times for results without evidence of fraud.
- Michael Walters: A former councillor, he expressed that the previous electronic system functioned effectively and criticized the shift to hand counting.
While officials maintain the ban promotes safety, many candidates feel it complicates the election process substantially. They argue that the focus should remain on efficiency rather than unnecessary regulations.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the ban on electronic voting tabulators has sparked a lively debate among Edmonton’s mayoral candidates. As the city waits for election results, the implications of this decision will continue to be scrutinized.
