Chapter 6. Before the Polls Open, this link opens in a new browser tab.

6.C.4. Examine the Tabulator Zero Tape for Votes

After the tabulator's ballot box and auxiliary ballot box have been checked and locked, the Election Judge will run a zero tape (vote count tape).

All vote counts on the zero tape must read zero. This confirms that no votes were recorded on the tabulator before the polls opened.

The poll watcher has the right to examine the zero tape. This step can present practical challenges.

Rule of Thumb

Poll watchers are not permitted to handle election materials unless expressly allowed by the Election Judge.

Because the zero tape is typically long and printed in very small type, reading it can be difficult without assistance.

The Election Judge may choose one of the following methods to allow examination of the zero tape:

• a. Hold the tape while the poll watcher reads it, which may take some time;
• b. Place the tape on a table and move it as needed, which may take additional time; or
• c. Determine that the zero tape is not an official election material until it is signed, and permit the poll watcher to briefly hold the tape while examining it.

The poll watcher must be allowed to examine the zero tape. The manner in which the examination occurs is at the discretion of the Election Judge and is not subject to challenge.

The poll watcher may not touch the zero tape unless and until permission is granted by the Election Judge.

At no time may the zero tape leave the sight or possession of the Election Judge.

Once the zero tape has been printed, the tabulator is locked, and the tabulator is powered on.