The discussion around ballot design in New Jersey has gained attention following a recent court decision that halted the use of a complex ballot layout for Senate primaries. Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi emphasized the importance of clear ballot designs, stating, “The whole design of a ballot is not to confuse the voter, that they can easily see the office for which they are voting and to easily see the candidates.”
Rutgers Professor Julia Sass Rubin contributed research to the case and expressed hope for improvements beyond the court's ruling. “I’m hoping for the best. I think there is certainly an argument to be made that there is a role for them to go beyond the court ruling and improve our ballots,” she said.
Rubin suggested changes such as randomizing candidate order by voting precinct to ensure fairness. She noted, “Right now in New Jersey whoever gets drawn out of the bin first gets that advantage, and that’s really not fair.” Rubin pointed out that at least 15 states have adopted this method using computer programs instead of manual selection by county clerks.
