What is Butterfly Ballot?

Definition and meaning of butterfly ballot: A butterfly ballot is a type of ballot where the names of candidates, initiatives, or referendums are printed on two facing pages, resembling the wings of a butterfly. This type of ballot can be challenging for voters to understand, especially when there is a long list of candidates. It can be difficult for voters to determine how to correctly vote for the party, candidate, or position they want to support. 

In 2000, butterfly ballots led to controversy in the U.S. presidential election in Florida, as butterfly ballots were found to potentially have an impact on the outcome of the election. On the ballot, the rows voters used to mark their choices were not aligned with the row of the corresponding candidate. As a result, some voters accidentally voted for the wrong candidate. Since then, several states have moved away from using butterfly ballots and have implemented other voting systems. 

The case of butterfly ballots is a good example of how poor design and subpar voting systems can have a direct impact on the integrity of elections.