I think it would help a lot if the tally was hidden and members were not allowed to post who they voted for, that way no one but mods/admins would know who was winning until the contest ended. I also think there should be some kind of "good sportmanship" rule where disrespecting any other entrant is grounds for disqualification. Is there any reason to be mentioning the other entrants at all, good, bad or indifferent, while you're asking for votes and promoting the site?
Shylaah