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Lake Village Today
By the People, for the People
Lake County Board of Elections Tests Voting Machines Ahead of Early Voting
Certification process required by Indiana law before April 7 early voting start
Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:03pm
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The bipartisan testing of voting equipment in Lake County aims to ensure the integrity and accessibility of the electoral process ahead of an important primary election.Lake Village TodayThe Lake County Board of Elections in Indiana conducted a pre-election testing and certification of 60 voting machines, representing 5% of the total machines that will be used in the upcoming May 5 primary election. The testing, which is mandated by state law, ensures the machines are accurate and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Why it matters
Ensuring the integrity and accessibility of voting equipment is a critical part of the electoral process. This routine testing helps build public confidence in the electoral system and safeguards the democratic process.
The details
The board members, including both Republicans and Democrats, tested the machines to verify the candidates were properly listed and to check for any issues like retractions or overvotes. They also tested the accessibility features to comply with the ADA. After the testing was completed, the results were certified and sent to state officials as required by Indiana law.
- The testing took place on March 31, 2026.
- Early voting in Indiana begins on April 7, 2026.
- The primary election is scheduled for May 5, 2026.
The players
Michelle Fajman
The Lake County Election Director who oversaw the testing process.
Jessica Messler
The Lake County Assistant Election Director who explained the state's role in selecting the machines to be tested.
John Reed
A Republican member of the Lake County Elections Board who participated in the testing.
Matt Fech
A Democratic member of the Lake County Elections Board who filled in for Michael Brown during the testing.
What they’re saying
“There's no going solo.”
— John Reed, Lake County Elections Board member
“The general election will be much easier.”
— Michelle Fajman, Lake County Election Director
What’s next
The certified results from the testing will be sent to state officials as required by Indiana law. The next major step will be the start of early voting on April 7, 2026, ahead of the primary election on May 5, 2026.
The takeaway
This routine pre-election testing of voting machines is an important safeguard to ensure the integrity and accessibility of the electoral process. By involving both Republican and Democratic board members, the process helps build public trust in the system and demonstrates a commitment to nonpartisan election administration.
