Maryland Seeks Public Input on New Voting Machines

State Board of Elections invites residents to test and provide feedback on potential $100 million voting system upgrade.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:00pm

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The Maryland State Board of Elections is seeking public input on a new voting machine system it is considering purchasing for the 2028 election cycle. The board is inviting residents to test out the machines and provide feedback at events in Baltimore, Rockville, and Grasonville from March 23-25. The new machines, made by Election Systems & Software, offer a larger touchscreen, more columns to display candidates, and automatic ballot duplication capabilities.

Why it matters

Replacing aging voting equipment is a major undertaking for states, costing millions. Maryland wants to ensure the new machines meet the needs and preferences of voters before making such a significant investment. Public input will help shape the final selection and ensure confidence in the state's voting infrastructure.

The details

The proposed voting machines feature a larger touchscreen display with up to three columns of candidates, making it easier for voters to view all options without scrolling. The machines also provide visual cues if a voter skips a question, and have an automated ballot duplication system to speed up the canvassing of web-delivered ballots. Maryland is budgeting over $100 million for the new voting equipment.

  • The public testing events will be held from March 23-25, 2026.
  • Maryland plans to have the new voting system in place for the 2028 presidential election cycle.

The players

Jared DiMarinus

The state administrator of elections for Maryland, overseeing the voting machine selection process.

Election Systems & Software

The company that manufactures the voting machines being considered by Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, we're spending over $100 million on new equipment here. I want to know if they like it and what their comments are.”

— Jared DiMarinus, State Administrator of Elections

“On the ballot-marking device, the biggest difference: columns. So, before we only had one column of candidates, now we can have up to three columns. So, a person doesn't have to scroll down to see more candidates. They will all be there.”

— Jared DiMarinus, State Administrator of Elections

What’s next

The public feedback from the March 23-25 testing events will be presented to the Maryland State Board of Elections for approval, with the goal of having the new voting system in place by the 2028 presidential election cycle.

The takeaway

Maryland's proactive approach to seeking public input on new voting machines demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the state's election infrastructure meets the needs and preferences of its residents. By 'trying before buying,' the state can make an informed decision on a $100 million investment that will impact the voting experience for years to come.