Abstract: A vote recording device utilizes a punch to form machine readable holes at preselected locations in a non-scored paper ballot card. A stationary top mask with an array of spaced punch access apertures and a metal anvil plate with an array of spaced die apertures are secured within a housing in spaced parallel relation with the apertures in axial alignment. A lockout template having an array of spaced punch receiving apertures is received for sliding movement between the top mask and the anvil plate. The lockout template is biased to a position where the punch receiving apertures on the lockout template are out of alignment with the punch access apertures in the upper mask. A ballot card is inserted between the lockout template and the anvil plate, causing the lockout template to slide to a position in which the punch receiving apertures of the lockout template are in alignment with the punch access apertures in the upper mask and the die apertures in the anvil plate.