overvoting

Overvoting is a voting error in which a ballot records more selections than allowed for a given contest. In a single-winner race, this usually means a voter marks more than one candidate; in multi-seat or multi-choice contests, marking more choices than the allowed number can also constitute an overvote. Depending on the jurisdiction and ballot design, an overvote may spoil only the affected contest or, in some cases, render the entire ballot invalid for counting.

Causes of overvoting include voter error, confusing or poorly designed ballots, misinterpretation of instructions, stray marks, or malfunctioning voting equipment. Ballot formats that encourage multiple marks or ambiguous spaces can contribute to overvotes, as can unfamiliar or inconsistent layouts across precincts or election types.

Detection and treatment vary by jurisdiction. When overvotes are detected during counting, only the contested races are typically affected while valid votes in other contests are usually counted. Some systems flag overvotes at the scanner and require the voter to rectify the ballot before final submission; others may allow in-person corrections or separate processes to address the issue. After submission, remedies are often limited, and many places treat an overvoted contest as spoiled for that race, with the rest of the ballot still eligible for counting.

Impact and context: Overvoting can influence election results, especially in close races, and may lead to legal challenges or recounts. It is distinct from undervoting, where a voter leaves a contest blank. Election authorities commonly study overvoting to improve ballot design and voter education.