Voting Machine Malfunctions Disrupt Voting in Key Pennsylvania Counties

US Elections 2024 : On Election Day, widespread technical issues with voting machines and software have disrupted voting in two crucial counties in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state in 2024 presidential race. 

Cambria and Bedford counties, both historically strongholds for former President Donald Trump , have been grappling with malfunctions in ir electronic voting systems, potentially affecting voter turut in se pivotal areas.

Early reports from Cambria County indicated that voters were unable to scan ir ballots due to a software malfunction in county's Electronic Voting System. Ron Repak, Cambria County’s Solicitor, confirmed issue, ting, “ Cambria County Board of Elections learned early this morning that a software malfunction in County’s Electronic Voting System has prevented voters from scanning ir ballots.” 

As a result, Board of Elections filed for a court order extending voting hours in county until 10 p.m. — two hours beyond regular 8 p.m. cutoff.

Pennsylvania Department of State has ackwledged problems and assured voters that y can still cast ir ballots via paper ballots, which will be securely stored in lockboxes for later processing. "Voters are continuing to vote by paper ballot, in accordance with rmal operations, while county resolves issue with in-precinct scanning," a department spokesperson stated. State officials emphasized ir commitment to ensuring a free, fair, safe, and secure election.

Bedford County is facing similar issues with its voting machines, with Election Board working to resolve problem as quickly as possible. Until machines are functioning properly, voters in Bedford are also being asked to submit paper ballots, which will be securely stored for later processing.

problems in Cambria and Bedford counties are especially significant given state’s role as a swing state in presidential race. 

Both Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris campaigned in Johnstown, largest city in Cambria County, in days leading up to election. 

Additional reports suggest that nearby counties, including Blair, Somerset, and Clearfield, may also be experiencing similar technical difficulties.