AKA Walden W. O'Dell

Born: c. 1945
Birthplace: St. Louis, MO

Gender: Male
Race or Ethnicity: White
Sexual orientation: Straight
Occupation: Business
Party Affiliation: Republican

Nationality: United States
Executive summary: CEO of Diebold, 1999-2005

In August 2003, corporate CEO Walden O'Dell mailed out 100 invitations for a political fundraiser at his 10,800-square-foot home outside Columbus, Ohio. The $1,000-a-plate dinner was to benefit the Ohio state Republican party's 2004 campaign fund. A diehard Republican and Bush Pioneer, O'Dell stated in the letter that "I am committed to helping Ohio deliver its electoral votes to the President next year."

The problem? O'Dell was President, Chairman, and CEO of Diebold -- an electronic voting machine manufacturer. They make the actual touchscreen systems that record votes on election day. When asked about the partisan fundraiser, a company spokesperson averred: "It's not part of Diebold. It's what Wally does in his own home."

O'Dell eventually resigned as CEO in December 2005.

November 2002 interview with CNBC:

BILL GRIFFETH:	How tamperproof are these voting machines? That seems to be a concern of some who feel that it only takes one person, one hacker who can screw up an entire election. How valid is that criticism, Mr. O'Dell?
O'DELL:	Well, there's always risks, but, you know, these things are not connected to the Internet. They're individual -- precinct by precinct, location by location. They're doublechecked before they're sent out. We think the technology is fabulous and very bulletproof.

Father: Lou Ruvo
Wife: Patricia (four children)
Son: Michael
Son: Patrick
Daughter: Jennifer

    University: BS Electrical Engineering, Ohio State University
    University: MS Electrical Engineering, St. Louis University
    University: MBA, Stanford University
    Administrator: Trustee, Ohio State University (2003-)

    Diebold President and CEO (1999-2005)
    Member of the Board of Diebold (as Chairman, -2005)
    Member of the Board of Lennox International (2003-06)
    Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Trustee
    Columbus Association of Performing Arts Board of Directors
    Bush-Cheney '04
    Ohio Business Roundtable
    Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Trustee
    United Way Greater Stark County Board
    Bush Pioneer 2000
    Dubya Ranch Hand Aug-2003
    Bush Pioneer 2004

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