Could every vote be illegal? Caddo Commission caught in lawsuit over electronic voting

SHREVEPPORT, La. -- The way local leaders cast votes in Shreveport could soon be thrown into legal limbo.

A pending lawsuit filed by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill argues that electronic voting violates state law requiring “viva voce” -- voice votes recorded out loud -- and the case has parish boards on edge.

At the September joint hearing of the Metropolitan Planning Commission and Parish Planning and Zoning Commission, members spent the first part of their meeting debating whether to stick with electronic voting or switch back to roll-call.

Executive Director Alan Clarke opened the discussion with caution.

“It’s at your discretion, Mr. Chair,” he said, “but I would suggest to you … not change until you get that opinion from the parish attorney. I think the Caddo Parish Commis