Mohave County Approves Ballot Security Marks for 2026 Midterms

In the Authentication & Brand News™ March 2024 article 'Decoding Georgia Bills - No to QR Codes Yes to Watermark', we updated the usage of security features in ballot paper. We are now informed of developments in Mohave County, as it approved adding security features to its ballot paper for the 2026 midterm elections to restore voter trust.

The Board of Supervisors unanimously backed a contract with Runbeck Election Services, a major election printing vendor, to explore options such as watermarks, invisible fibres, infrared taggants, and UV-resistant paper.

The features will cost an estimated 10 to 15 cents per ballot. During the last midterm election, over 83,000 residents voted in Mohave County. While the final selection of features remains undecided, recent tests confirmed that Runbeck’s enhanced ballots are compatible with the county’s existing voting machines from Election Systems & Software.

Chairman Travis Lingenfelter said the move aimed to improve public confidence in elections and encouraged other counties to consider similar upgrades. He believes the added cost is justified if it boosts transparency and trust in the process.