Fairbanks assembly hears strong opposition to Dominion voting machines contract renewal

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Finance Committee meeting on March 6, 2025, focused heavily on the contentious issue of renewing the contract for Dominion Voting Machines. A series of public testimonies revealed widespread skepticism about the security and reliability of these machines, with many residents advocating for a return to hand counting ballots.

Several speakers expressed concerns about the potential vulnerabilities of the Dominion machines, citing issues such as the presence of modems that could allow for remote access and manipulation. One resident, who identified as a member of a grassroots volunteer group, highlighted a video presentation that detailed security flaws in the voting system, arguing that the machines pose a significant risk to election integrity. This sentiment was echoed by multiple speakers who emphasized the need for transparency and trust in the electoral process.

Barbara Tyndall, a long-time election worker, stated that the lack of trust in the machines has led to lower voter turnout, as many citizens feel their votes may not be counted accurately. She and others argued that hand counting ballots would not only restore confidence but also be more cost-effective than maintaining the current electronic system.

Critics of the Dominion machines pointed out the financial implications of renewing the contract, which amounts to approximately $219,000 annually. Testimonies suggested that these funds could be better allocated to pressing community needs, such as public safety and education. Several residents called for a reevaluation of the borough's spending priorities, urging the assembly to consider alternatives that would enhance election integrity without incurring unnecessary costs.

The assembly members engaged with the public, asking questions about their experiences and opinions on the voting process. The overwhelming consensus among the speakers was a call for a shift back to hand counting, with many asserting that it would ensure a more reliable and trustworthy election outcome.

As the meeting concluded, the assembly faced the challenge of addressing these concerns while balancing budgetary constraints and the need for a secure voting system. The discussions highlighted a significant divide in public opinion regarding the use of electronic voting machines, setting the stage for further debate on the future of the borough's election processes.