One embodiment of the present invention includes a column multiplexer for accessing data from a memory array comprising an output node having a logic state that is based on a logic state of a control node, and column elements, each comprising a first pair of series connected switches controlled by a column select signal and a bit line signal associated with data stored in a plurality of memory cells. The first pair of switches is configured to set the control node to a logic low state based on a logic state of the bit line signal. The column elements each also comprise a second pair of series connected switches controlled by the bit line signal and a complement of the column select signal. The second pair of switches is configured to set the control node to a logic high state based on the logic state of the bit line signal.