San Mateo County Chief Elections Officer Warren Slocum launched “Election Talk Radio,” the state’s first online radio program devoted to election issues.

Election Talk Radio will be a collection of periodic interviews on www.shapethefuture.org, the County’s official election website. “Every presidential voting year, there is a heightened interest in the upcoming election. Election Talk Radio is a way to use technology to reach out and educate voters,” explained Slocum.

In the first interview, Slocum is asked about the controversial touch screen voting systems recently decertified by California Secretary of State Kevin Shelley. He places the California experience with touch screen voting systems in the context of the national scene. “In the midst of the touch screen debate, I felt it was important to frame the issue from the viewpoint of election integrity,” said Slocum, “and I use real life examples to make my point. Voters may disagree with me, but I’ll definitely give them something to think about.”

In a second interview, Slocum talks about the “The Mechanics of Running for Office,” an elections seminar that is set for June 30 th. The seminar is designed to demystify the process for people interested in running for office, for people helping others run for office, or for people working on an initiative or proposition. “The Election code is pretty dry,” explained Slocum, “and very specific. This workshop puts the process in context, adds the human element and makes it more understandable.” The public is welcome.

Anyone interested in election issues and San Mateo County ’s approach and preparation for the upcoming Presidential General election can tune in to Election Talk Radio and get a front row seat. E-Visitors are encouraged to email their reactions to the interview, ask questions and request other topics for future interviews. Interviews will be archived and available for replay.