Legal Definitions - Texas ballot

A "Texas ballot" refers to the official document or electronic interface provided to eligible voters in the state of Texas, which allows them to register their choices in an election. It contains the names of candidates for various offices, proposed constitutional amendments, bond issues, or other measures, all presented in accordance with Texas election laws and procedures.

• Example 1 (General Election, Paper Ballot): During a November general election, a registered voter in Harris County receives a long sheet of paper at their polling place. This document lists candidates for federal, state, and local offices, such as U.S. Senator, Governor of Texas, and county commissioner, along with several statewide propositions. The voter uses a pen to mark their selections before submitting the ballot.

  Explanation: This physical document is a Texas ballot because it is the official, state-mandmandated instrument used by an eligible voter to cast their votes in a Texas election, containing all the legally required contests and measures.

• Example 2 (Primary Election, Electronic Ballot): In a Texas primary election, a voter in Bexar County opts to vote using an electronic voting machine. After checking in, they are presented with a touchscreen interface that first asks them to select either the Republican or Democratic party ballot. Once a choice is made, the screen displays only the candidates seeking that party's nomination for various offices, allowing the voter to make their selections digitally.

  Explanation: The interactive display on the electronic voting machine, tailored to a specific party's candidates, functions as a Texas ballot because it is the official electronic method provided by the state for voters to record their choices in a Texas primary election, adhering to the state's rules for party-specific voting.

• Example 3 (Special Election, Mail-in Ballot): For a special election concerning a local school district bond proposal in Tarrant County, eligible voters receive a ballot in the mail. This ballot is a single sheet of paper with clear instructions, listing the specific bond propositions and providing spaces for voters to mark "For" or "Against" each one. Voters complete the ballot and return it in a provided pre-addressed envelope.

  Explanation: This mail-in document is a Texas ballot because it is the official, state-approved means for eligible voters to participate in a special election within Texas, presenting the specific issues to be voted upon in compliance with Texas election statutes for absentee voting.