Date of Award

2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Systems Engineering

Department

Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering

First Advisor

Gretchen A. Macht

Abstract

Voting accessibility continues to pose significant challenges for millions of Americans with disabilities. Key legislative advances, such as the Help America Vote Act, have addressed some concerns, but significant barriers remain that prevent individuals with disabilities from exercising their right to vote in a private, independent, and equitable manner. Voters still face difficulties with various aspects of the voting process, from physical access to polling places to the usability of voting machines. This study examines the accessibility of election-day voting machines, specifically Ballot Marking Devices (BMDs) and Direct Recording Electronics (DREs) in the 2024 US Presidential Election. These machines are essential components in modern elections, offering alternatives for voters who may not be able to use traditional paper ballots due to mobility, vision, or other disabilities. However, the effectiveness of these technologies in providing a fully accessible and inclusive voting experience remains unclear.

To address this gap, this study uses data from Verified Voting (2024), the US Census Bureau & US Department of Commerce (2023), BMD and DRE manufacturers, and election resources. This research analyzes the impact of accessible equipment on voters with disabilities, including estimates of how many people with disabilities rely on these machines. Additionally, this study evaluates these systems against Principle 7 of the Voluntary Voting System Guidelines 2.0, which emphasizes that voters should be able to mark, verify, and cast their ballots as intended. Ultimately, this research aims to inform policy recommendations and improve future voting systems to better meet the needs of all voters.

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Available for download on Thursday, May 27, 2027

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