Dallas, Texas, December 6, 2025
The Dallas County Republican Party has decided to hand-count all ballots cast on Election Day for the March primary, potentially making it the largest U.S. jurisdiction to do so. The party aims to enhance transparency amid concerns over electronic voting system reliability. Approximately 3,300 workers will be needed to complete the count, which presents significant logistical challenges, including a strict 24-hour deadline for vote submission. This move will also revert to precinct-based voting for all residents.
Dallas County Republicans Proceed with Plan to Hand-Count Ballots in March Primary
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas County Republican Party has confirmed its decision to hand-count all ballots cast on Election Day during the upcoming March 3 primary, a move that could make Dallas County the largest jurisdiction in the United States to implement manual ballot counting.
Decision and Implementation
In September 2025, the party’s executive committee voted to explore the feasibility of hand-counting ballots for the March primary. Party Chair Allen West announced on December 5, 2025, that he will sign a contract with the Dallas County Elections Department to hold a separate primary from Democrats, enabling the Republican hand count. This decision follows concerns over the reliability of electronic voting systems and aims to enhance transparency in the electoral process.
Operational Details
The hand-counting process will apply exclusively to ballots cast on Election Day, not during the early voting period. Based on previous turnout, the party anticipates counting over 49,000 ballots on Election Day alone. Texas law mandates that vote totals be submitted to the state within 24 hours after polls close, presenting a significant challenge for the party to tally tens of thousands of ballots within this timeframe.
Resource Requirements
To execute this plan, the party estimates the need for approximately 3,300 workers to staff precincts and count ballots. As of December 5, 2025, the party has raised $420,199 to fund the effort and secured 1,000 workers, with a goal to recruit additional volunteers and raise more funds to meet the staffing and logistical demands of the hand-counting process.
Implications for Voters
The decision to hand-count ballots will necessitate a return to precinct-based voting for all Dallas County residents on Election Day, as opposed to the countywide vote centers used since 2019. This change may affect voters accustomed to the flexibility of voting at any location within the county. Democratic Party members have expressed concerns about the impact on voters who may find it challenging to reach their designated precincts, potentially leading to confusion and reduced voter turnout.
Background Context
Hand-counting ballots has been a topic of discussion in various jurisdictions, particularly among those skeptical of electronic voting systems. While proponents argue it increases transparency, experts highlight the time-consuming nature, higher costs, and potential for human error associated with manual counts. Previous attempts at hand-counting in other counties have faced challenges, including discrepancies in tallying and the need for extensive resources to manage the process effectively.
Next Steps
The Dallas County Republican Party continues to recruit volunteers and secure funding to support the hand-counting initiative. The party is committed to ensuring the process is conducted efficiently and accurately, aiming to uphold the integrity of the electoral process in Dallas County.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Dallas County Republican Party’s plan for the March 3 primary?
The party plans to hand-count all ballots cast on Election Day during the March 3 primary, making Dallas County potentially the largest jurisdiction in the U.S. to implement manual ballot counting.
Why is the party choosing to hand-count ballots?
The decision stems from concerns over the reliability of electronic voting systems and aims to enhance transparency in the electoral process.
How many workers are needed for the hand-counting process?
Approximately 3,300 workers are estimated to be required to staff precincts and count ballots within the 24-hour timeframe mandated by Texas law.
Will this change affect all voters in Dallas County?
Yes, all Dallas County residents will need to vote at their designated precincts on Election Day, as opposed to the countywide vote centers used since 2019.
What are the potential challenges of hand-counting ballots?
Hand-counting is time-consuming, costly, and prone to human error, which can lead to discrepancies in tallying and requires extensive resources to manage effectively.
Key Features of the Hand-Counting Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scope | Hand-counting of all Election Day ballots for the March 3 primary |
| Staffing Requirements | Approximately 3,300 workers needed to staff precincts and count ballots |
| Funding | Initial funds raised amount to $420,199, with ongoing efforts to secure additional funding |
| Voter Impact | Return to precinct-based voting for all Dallas County residents on Election Day |
| Implementation Timeline | Preparation and recruitment ongoing, with the primary scheduled for March 3, 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dallas County Officials Refute Claims of Paper Ballot System
Starbase Officially Declares Itself a City in Texas
Dallas Elections 2025: Voter Turnout Insights
Starbase City Vote: Shaping the Future of SpaceX in Texas
Dallas Early Voting Sparks Controversy in City Council Race
Thousands of North Texans Kick Off Early Voting
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
