A DU Challenge: Open Source Electronic Voting Systems

[JM]

Folks, I have seen many comments on this board regarding the notion that we cannot take back our country because of Electronic Voting. I respectfully disagree with that notion, and would like to present a plan.

First, an explanation. For those who don't know, the term "Open Source" refers to a type of software where many developers from around the country/world work on the software code, which is open for all to see. This encourages good design, and discourages people from intentionally sabotaging the product for their own gain (e.g. rigging the vote)

DU can play an integral part in producing an Open Source Electronic Voting System in the near future. I am proposing we put together a DU Campaign for Fair Electronic Voting to accomplish three things: Gather information, Increase public awareness based on that information, and support those initiatives.

1) Information - We need a list and links of those organizations in the US that are developing Open Source Electonic Voting Systems.
2) Awareness - We need to get out the word that these projects exist and get as many people to be aware of them as possible
3) Support - We need to support as many of these projects as we can. The more we support, the better the chance one will succeed.

DU has a tremendous base and a tremendous reach. We can and must do this in order to pursue our agenda. Without the ability to put our candidates into office with a fair vote, we cannot push any agenda and we will continue to waste time and energy.

JM

[Sliverofhope]

1. GOP is alleging vote fraud in VA, BTW

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26547-2004Nov4.html

[zeemike]

2. I don't know much about code and stuff

But it seems to me even with open source software it is still possible to slip in a virus like thingy in the computer that would activate itself on a date, change some votes and deactivate itself and never be noticed.
Are you saying that it would be imposable with open source software?

[tlmorris]

4. Open Source

Open Source means we are freely able to view the code that counts the votes to make sure there are no funny algorithms in there. It also means the code is not proprietary, so it may be free. An Open Source voting application on an Open Source OS, such as Linux, would reduce the price on voting systems enough that we might can get the printers thrown in for free.

Using Linux, we could limit the possibility of hacking and viral infection. Remotely stored logs can track any access to the console and the application, and would not be on the local console, making it more difficult for someone to hide their actions. But, as with any voting technology, anyone with malicious intent and access could bypass any security you have.

[zeemike]

11. I can tell right away, I like open source

That and a paper trail would put my fears to rest.

[JM]

5. I know how to develop software...

...and there are two issues

1) Bulletproofing, or defensively coding software to ensure to the best possible degree bad things don't happen. It is impossible to perform 100% prevention because the technology is constantly evolving

2) Auditing - This is an equally critical step required to prove that the system is functioning normally or not, and to provide system-based remedies in the event it is not.

No, it is not impossible, but it is far more difficult with open source.

JM

[zeemike]

12. Like I said above

That and a paper trail is good with me.

[lonewolf0507]

3. I totally agree

As a C++ developer, I would love to have a part in this. Keep me posted on this one.

[JM]

6. Lonewolf, pick a peice of the campaign and run with it!

I am not trying to be disrespectful here, but it is not enough to say, "yeah, I like this! Let me know how it turns out" and watch from the sidelines. Everyone needs to take a small action, whether it be googling Open Voting Software and doing some basic research, sending out emails to drum up support, or donating $10 to a project.

JM

[The Traveler]

8. An open source project

is not difficult to set up and organize. See www.sourceforge.net

It is easier to bulletproof Java than C++ ... a C++ developer has little difficulty making the transition. (I found it easy.)

[JM]

10. I am not looking for us to necessarily start a software project...

...but to act as a support program for those that are there and promote any new initiative.

Agreed though. Sourceforge is pretty damn good!

Later,
JM

[Avalux]

7. GO HERE and read -

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=106x11880

Project EVote needs help. Please email Tab at the address provided and let him know if you're interested. :hi:

[JM]

9. This is exactly what I am talking about...

Apparently someone here at DU has taken the lead, and we at DU need to officially join in.

Let's get it rolling dammit!

JM

[puddycat]

13. I am solidly AGAINST any electronic voting. Period. It sucks

3rd world countries who vote on paper ballots have a better system than we do. I don't trust any system involving computers. Technology is not always the right way to go. We are destroying our own society by voting using technology only a few people can control.