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Election News This Week

News From 1600: Following a Friday meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Monday, President Donald Trump took to his social media network Truth Social and called for the abolishment of mail voting and the elimination of voting machines. Needless to say, the response from many in the election administration sphere was quick – Arizona, Arkansas,  California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia. While much of the response was incredulity, not only about the idea of eliminating vote by mail and types of voting equipment, but the president’s power to actually do it, at least two secretaries of state– Missouri and Wyoming – expressed their support for the idea. The president doubled down on Wednesday, once again taking to social media to call for the end of mail voting and for everyone to move to paper ballots–something most jurisdictions already use. “Elections in the United States are run by the states as an intentional protection in our Constitution to prevent concentrated executive power,” said Verified Voting’s Pam Smith. “No president has the authority to dictate how Americans vote. Most voters already vote with paper ballots. Instead of undermining options like mail or early voting that already use paper ballots, the federal government should prioritize real solutions that would strengthen our elections, like expanding robust post-election audits, re-instating cybersecurity protections and ensuring the stable support and funding local election officials need to administer our democracy — a nonpartisan priority for everyone.” There has been no official word or indication from the White House, at press time, about when there may be an executive order. 

U.S. Postal Service Update: The United States Postal Service seeks comment on a proposed addition to the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM). Specifically, the Postal Service proposes to add Section 608.11, “Postmarks and Postal Possession.” This Section will serve multiple purposes. It will define the postmark, will identify the types of Postal Service markings that qualify as postmarks, and will describe the circumstances under which those markings are applied. This Section will also explain that, while the presence of a postmark on a mailpiece confirms that the Postal Service was in possession of the mailpiece on the date of the postmark’s inscription, the postmark date does not inherently or necessarily align with the date on which the Postal Service first accepted possession of a mailpiece. In addition, this Section will advise customers of the options available if they want evidence of the exact date on which the Postal Service first accepted possession of their mailpiece. The proposed DMM addition does not signal and would not effect a change in postmarking procedures; postmarks will continue to be applied to Single-Piece First Class Mail pieces, both letter-shaped and flat-shaped, in the same manner and to the same extent as before. The deadline to submit comments is September 11, 2025. 

Podcast News: In the latest episode of High Turnout Wide Margins, hosts Eric Fey and Brianna Lennon speak with Isaac Cramer. He’s the Executive Director of the Charleston County Board of Elections in South Carolina, as well as a member of the EAC’s Technical Guidelines Development Committee. This committee is currently looking at ways the Voluntary Voting System Guidelines, or VVSG, may be updated in the future. NPR’s Politics Podcast discusses the president’s recent calls to eliminate vote by mail and certain voting equipment. 

Sticker News: The Humboldt County, California Office of Elections revealed the winning designs of Humboldt County’s “I Voted” Sticker Contest at the Humboldt County Fair on Saturday, Aug. 16. The county’s “I Voted” Sticker Contest invited youth and adult artists to create sticker designs that celebrated voting and showcased the county’s unique natural environment. Adeline Pierce, a student at Sunny Brae Middle School, was named the youth winner and recognized for her winning design featuring a banana slug. “I love the forest and banana slugs,” said Pierce of her winning design. “When I was little me and my family would go on long walks through the forest. I adored banana slugs and would name them and build them slug houses, so of course I decided to do a banana slug design.” Carly Haynes, a local educator, was named the adult winner and said her design featuring an otter is meant to represent one of her favorite places in Humboldt County, the lagoons by Trinidad. “I also wanted to stay true to Humboldt’s weirdness which is why an alien spaceship is seen abducting an elk. I included ‘I Voted’ in Spanish, Hmong, Pashto and Vietnamese because these are some of the languages my students hear or speak at home. I wanted everyone in our community to feel included.” The winning youth and adult designs will be featured in vote-by-mail ballots through 2027. “Voting is both a right and a privilege, and this contest was a fun way to engage our community and encourage voting in Humboldt,” said Humboldt County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters Juan Pablo Cervantes. “I’d like to thank everyone who shared their creativity, voted for their favorite designs and joined us at the Humboldt County Fair to celebrate the winners.” The Fairbanks North Star Borough, AlaskaF Clerk’s Office recently announced the winners of the 2025 “I Voted” Sticker Contest: Aubrey Smith of Cyberlynx and Rhys Ott of Barnette Magnet! The winning stickers will be printed and distributed to voters at the Early Vote Station, reminding us that every voice and every vote matters. “Local elections shape the community we live in and impact our daily lives,” said FNSB Clerk, April Trickey. “It’s our goal to see the public turn out on October 7, 2025. Your voice will make a difference, so make it count. Vote local.”

Personnel News: Albemarle County, Virginia general registrar and director of elections Lauren Eddy has resigned. Alison Bouchard has served as the city clerk in Fall River, Massachusetts for over 15 years and has worked in the city clerk’s office for 38 years but is retiring from her position. Michelle Henricks is the new deputy director of elections for Williams County, Ohio. Betty Manzella is stepping down as the GOP Commissioner of Elections in Suffolk County, New  York. Lydia McComas is the new Madison, Wisconsin city clerk.

Ballot Measures, Legislation & Rulemaking

Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska: Borough voters will decide this fall whether the borough should hand-count paper ballots in borough elections. That’s after the borough clerk’s office signed off on a citizen initiative requesting the change. Waynette Coleman helped sponsor the petition, which builds on concerns she and others brought to the borough assembly last year. She says accurate voter roles, secure elections and confidence in the democratic process are important to her. “We the people have a right to vote and carry that vote honestly all the way through in an election, and that’s what we expect,” she told KDLL. Coleman says completely eliminating the use of technology in local elections, including tabulators, is necessary to restore confidence in elections. “That would mean we need to put it back to the precinct level, make it so that everybody that votes, there’s our peers there, there are people who may be hired, there are people that may be working for the state election, that’s fine, or for the local election, that’s fine, but it still would be within our neighborhood, our neighbors, our peers,” she said. Coleman envisions voters feeding ballots into a locked box until polls close. Then, election workers would hand-count ballots and relay the results to the borough. Michele Turner is the Kenai Peninsula Borough clerk. She’s been in touch with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough clerk, about what the changes could mean for the Kenai Peninsula. The Mat-Su Borough has hand-counted paper ballots since 2023. Turner says it’s hard to know how much a pivot to hand-counting would cost the borough, based on what she heard from the other clerk. “She still is yet trying to figure out the differences, other than the initial impact of them not paying for their software provider any longer,” she said. “She did share with me that there was additional costs for personnel with her staff as well, and needing more election workers.”

California: California Democrats say voters will decide if they want to set aside the state’s independent citizens redistricting commission through 2030 in favor of new maps that favor their party. Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8 would put the issue before voters on Nov. 4. Senate Bill 280 makes timelines and procedures, as well as allocates money for it. Assembly Bill 604 is the vehicle for the new maps. The constitutional amendment and SB 280 passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Wednesday. Assembly Bill 604 passed Senate Appropriations the same day. All three bills now head to their respective house floors for an anticipated Thursday vote. Governor Gavin Newsom will likely sign the bills, as he’s championed the special election. The bills must pass by Friday for the election to occur in November.

Michigan: Legislation to close a loophole that allows the secretary of state to avoid punishment for campaign finance violations is advancing in the House with bipartisan support. The bill that unanimously advanced Tuesday, Aug. 19, by the House Election Integrity Committee would grant the attorney general the authority to punish the secretary of state in the event of a violation of the Michigan Campaign Finance Act (MCFA). The bill now awaits consideration on the House floor. Currently, the secretary of state investigates and resolves all violations of the MCFA. When the secretary of state or someone connected to them is accused of violating the law, the attorney general’s office investigates. However, as Attorney General Dana Nessel pointed out in a recent campaign finance violation case against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, the attorney general can’t issue punishments under the MCFA. At the time, Nessel’s office said lawmakers may want to consider fixing this issue.

A bill to ban ranked choice voting in the state of Michigan, which was introduced in the House of Representatives last month and rammed through committee on August 19 after just one hearing, was passed in the lower chamber Wednesday with opposition from the chamber’s Democrats. House Bill 4707, sponsored by state Rep. Rachelle Smit (R-Martin), would ban the voting method if signed into law. The measure passed 57-44 with nine members of the House not voting. Each vote affirming the passage of the bill came from a Republican member of the House, while each no vote came from the chamber’s Democrats. Eight Democrats and just one Republican – state Rep. Phill Green of Watertown Township – did not vote on the bill.

Wisconsin Rulemaking: The Wisconsin Elections Commission ordered Madison election officials to follow several specific election procedures to ensure that ballots don’t go missing again in the capital city, rejecting arguments by the interim clerk that the orders may exceed the agency’s legal authority. According to Votebeat, the commission’s 5-1 vote came a month after it withheld a first set of proposed orders amid pushback from Madison and Dane County officials, and asked the city to propose its own remedies. Madison interim Clerk Mike Haas said the specificity of the commission’s original proposed orders “would set a troubling precedent.” The city did submit its proposals, but the commission rejected them as overly broad, and finalized orders that were largely similar to the ones it proposed in July, with some minor revisions, including citations of the legal basis for each order. The orders require Madison officials to create an internal plan detailing which election task is assigned to which employee; print pollbooks no earlier than the Tuesday before each election; develop a detailed record to track absentee ballots; and search through election materials for missing ballots before the city’s election canvassing board meets to finalize results.

Wyoming: Legislators voted to sponsor bills addressing the state’s use of paper ballots and ballot drop boxes during a Joint Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee meeting. The two bills, which would require paper ballots be the default voting method in each county and would prohibit the use of ballot drop boxes, are in alignment with legislation that Secretary of State Chuck Gray backed earlier this year. During the meeting, Gray repeatedly referred to President Trump’s executive order “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,” saying these bills are essential to achieving the president’s objectives. The bills also align with Gray’s “election integrity” agenda. Wyoming League of Women Voters President Linda Barton told the committee that they should heavily consider the input of the county clerks, and avoid supporting legislation that takes away local control for the sake of national agendas. “The bills before you today do not meet that standard,” Barton told the committee. “Instead, they erect barriers; impose costly, unfunded mandates; reduce access, and risk undermining public trust in our elections.” The committee also worked on two draft bills, one prohibiting “ballot harvesting” and one addressing voter registration procedures, which will be revisited during their November meeting.

Legal Updates

Federal Litigation: The conservative network Newsmax will pay $67 million to settle a lawsuit accusing it of defaming Dominion Voting Systems  by spreading lies about President Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss, according to documents filed this week. The settlement comes after Fox News Channel paid $787.5 million to settle a similar lawsuit in 2023 and Newsmax paid what court papers describe as $40 million to settle a libel lawsuit from a different voting machine manufacturer, Smartmatic, which also was a target of pro-Trump conspiracy theories on the network. Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis had ruled earlier that Newsmax did indeed defame Denver-based Dominion by airing false information about the company and its equipment. But Davis left it to a jury to eventually decide whether that was done with malice, and, if so, how much Dominion deserved from Newsmax in damages. Newsmax and Dominion reached the settlement before the trial could take place. The settlement was disclosed by Newsmax in a new filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. It said the deal was reached August 15. 

Arizona: Voters who were caught up in a state error tracking citizenship should keep their full voting rights, according to Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes. According to Votebeat, her opinion marks a turning point in the debate among officials over how to handle the eligibility of the roughly 200,000 voters, who were erroneously listed in state records as having provided proof of U.S. citizenship even though they hadn’t been asked to. Arizona requires such proof to vote in state and local elections, and counties have been sending notices to voters to try to collect the information. Mayes said county recorders cannot legally suspend these voters’ registrations or make them eligible only for federal elections if they now fail to respond to these notices. “If an Affected Voter responds by providing such evidence, that should dispel doubt,” Mayes wrote. “But if an Affected Voter does not respond, the mere lack of response does not, under current law, authorize the county recorder to cancel the voter’s registration, in whole or in part.” It’s unclear whether county recorders will follow Mayes’ opinion, which is meant to advise officials but does not have the force of law, according to the Attorney General manual, Votebeat reported. 

Colorado: The Colorado attorney general’s office has asked for the dismissal of the habeas corpus petition filed by former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, arguing that the federal court does not have jurisdiction in the case. Peters is serving a nine-year prison sentence for her role in a breach of Mesa County’s elections systems during a 2021 software update. She was convicted by a jury in August 2024 on four felony counts related to the security breach, which was part of an effort to demonstrate that the 2020 election was untrustworthy, even though there is no credible evidence to support that position. Peters has appealed the conviction, and while the Colorado Court of Appeals reviews her appeal, her legal team filed a federal habeas corpus petition. The petition, which was filed in the U.S. District Court of Colorado, argues that Peters should be released on bond pending the appeal decision. The filing by the attorney general’s office cites the 1971 U.S. Supreme Court case Younger v. Harris, in which the court recognized “longstanding public policy against federal court interference with state court proceedings.” According to the filing, if three conditions in the case are met, then the federal court “must abstain from exercising jurisdiction regarding state proceedings.” Those conditions are that the state proceedings are ongoing; the state proceedings implicate important state interests; and the state proceedings afford an adequate opportunity to present the federal constitutional challenges. The filing argues that those conditions are met, because Peters’ state-level appeal is ongoing, her conviction is criminal, thus an important state interest, and her appeal allows her to present her constitutional challenge. Based on the precedent set in the Younger case, the filing says the federal court does not have jurisdiction in Peters’ habeas corpus petition.

Florida: Lawyers for Secretary of State Cord Byrd and Attorney General James Uthmeier have gone to a federal appeals court after a U.S. district judge rejected part of a 2023 Florida elections law. The state filed a notice that is a first step in asking the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn the Aug. 8 ruling by U.S. District Judge Mark Walker. The notice, as is common, did not detail the state’s arguments. But Walker’s ruling said part of the 2023 law that seeks to prevent non-U.S. citizens from collecting voter-registration applications violates equal-protection rights. Under the law, voter-registration groups could face a $50,000 fine for each non-citizen collecting or handling applications. Walker in 2023 issued a preliminary injunction against the non-citizen restriction. In his Aug. 8 ruling, Walker issued a final order and a permanent injunction against enforcing the law against two plaintiffs in the case, the civil rights group UnidosUS and Humberto Orjuela Prieto, who lives in Osceola County and is a legal permanent resident from Colombia.

Indiana: The Brown County Election Board is asking to dismiss a lawsuit by two men barred from running for office as Republicans. In a motion to dismiss, filed this week in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, attorneys representing the election board wrote that they had not voted to prevent county commissioner Tim Clark and attorney Rich Stanley from seeking office as Republicans in future races. “The Plaintiff’s cause of action is incorrectly directed at the Brown County Election Board, which is under no duty to opine to the Plaintiffs, act prior to a timely election filing, or make any early decision regarding eligibility to run for office for the foreseeable future,” the motion to dismiss stated.

Louisiana: District maps for seats in the Louisiana Legislature violate the federal Voting Rights Act, a panel of judges on the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled. Their decision upholds a lower court ruling that found the boundaries discriminated against Black voters.  The panel’s ruling was issued August 14 in the case Nairne v. Landry, in which Black voters sued the state over redistricting plans the legislature adopted in 2022. The new boundaries for Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives districts did not increase the number of majority Black seats. The plaintiffs alleged they were unconstitutional racial gerrymanders.  The three appellate judges – James Dennis, an appointee of President Bill Clinton; Catharina Haynes, an appointee of President George W. Bush; and Irma Ramirez, an appointee of President Joe Biden – upheld a 2024 ruling from U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick of the Middle District of Louisiana. Dick determined the legislative maps do not give Black voters a fair opportunity to elect their own representatives. Dick’s ruling came after the 2023 elections, when a new class of lawmakers were elected, yielding a Republican supermajority in both chambers.  The state appealed Dick’s decision, arguing in part that Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional and should not be applied to Louisiana. The section prohibits actions and policy that restrict a person’s right to vote based on their race, color or membership in a language minority group. The 5th Circuit judges disagreed with that argument. 

Mississippi: U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock has ordered Mississippi to redraw its Supreme Court electoral map, after finding the map dilutes the power of Black voters. Aycock ruled the map, which was enacted in 1987, violates the Voting Rights Act and cannot be used in future elections. The Mississippi branch of the American Civil Liberties Union helped litigate the lawsuit, arguing the map cut Mississippi’s Delta region — a historically Black area — in half. The lawsuit, which was filed on April 25, 2022, argued the map diminished the Black vote in the Central District. Aycock’s ruling notes that only four Black people have served on the Mississippi Supreme Court. All of them held the same seat in the Central District and were first appointed to the position by a sitting governor. Aycock wrote that she will impose a deadline for the Mississippi Legislature to create a new map.

Montana: A new federal lawsuit alleges Chouteau County prevents Native American voters from fully participating in elections for Board of Commissioners, and county officials have been unresponsive to working on a joint solution with the Chippewa Cree Tribe. In the complaint, the Chippewa Cree Indians of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation and a couple of  tribal members are suing the county, the commissioners, and the clerk and recorder alleging the county’s at-large elections are unlawful. The plaintiffs want the U.S. District Court’s Great Falls Division to find Chouteau County’s at-large elections for its three commissioners don’t comply with the Voting Rights Act. They also want the court to implement a redistricting plan that doesn’t dilute the Native American vote. The complaint requests the court order a plan “that provides at least one Native American voting-age majority single-member commissioner district that effectively performs for the Native American candidate of choice.”

New York: A split New York appellate court revived a voting rights organization’s challenge to the New York Board of Elections’ approval of a touch screen voting system, which the organization says doesn’t let voters privately verify their ballots. The trial court said the group didn’t show its members had been harmed, but the appellate court ruled that they were likely to face harm because many counties had already started the process leading to the use of the ExpressVote XL machines.

Virginia: The Fourth Circuit rejected a challenge to Virginia’s singular voting rights restoration process, ruling the system isn’t a licensing scheme subject to scrutiny under a First Amendment doctrine. George Hawkins, convicted as a minor of attempted murder and aggravated malicious wounding in 2010, challenged the system after Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin declined to restore his voting rights in 2023. Hawkins argued that Virginia’s one-of-a-kind system, whereby the governor has unbridled authority to restore felons’ voting rights, violates a constitutional principle prohibiting administrators from exercising unfettered discretion over whether to grant licenses that implicate an individual’s First Amendment rights. A three-judge panel agreed with a lower court’s ruling that the voting restoration process differs from a licensing scheme.  “Hawkins’ claim fails because, as both other federal courts of appeal to consider this question have concluded, the discretionary exercise of Virginia’s clemency power does not constitute a licensing system,” U.S. Circuit Judge Andrew Wynn said.  Wynn relied on the Sixth Circuit’s decision in Lostutter v. Kentucky, where the federal court rejected a similar challenge. The Sixth Circuit outlined the differences between pardons and administrative licensing, including that pardons are retrospective and one-time acts rather than ongoing. The key difference, however, is that pardons restore a right once held but lost due to illegal conduct, while licenses regulate how a person exercises a right they already possess. 

 Wisconsin: Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney will serve as a special prosecutor in a case centered around the mayor’s removal of a Wausau ballot drop box. Last September, ahead of the 2024 general election, Wausau Mayor Doug Diny put on work gloves, donned a hard hat and used a dolly to cart away a drop box outside City Hall, posing for pictures as he did so. Diny, a conservative candidate backed by the Republican Party, ran for office on his opposition to absentee ballot drop boxes. He insisted he did nothing wrong by removing the box, but eventually turned it back over to the clerk, who then had the box re-installed and bolted to the ground. The box was locked and no ballots were inside it when the mayor wheeled it away. Criminal investigators with the Wisconsin Department of Justice took the lead in an investigation into the incident. Marathon County District Attorney Kyle Mayo requested a special prosecutor be appointed to the case to ensure full transparency and impartiality. As special prosecutor, Toney will review the DCI’s investigation, determine whether additional investigation is needed and make any appropriate determinations related to the investigation.

Wyoming: District Judge Misha E. Westby dismissed an attempt to remove Secretary of State Chuck Gray from office on Aug. 11. Retired Laramie attorney Tim Newcomb filed the lawsuit in Albany County’s Second Judicial District in February. Newcomb looked to have Gray removed under Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment, which bans state officials from having engaged in insurrection or rebellion. Newcomb’s lawsuit alleged Gray provided “aid and comfort” to Jan. 6 insurrectionists who rioted at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. In her decision to dismiss the case Westby said that Newcomb failed to include facts about Gray’s involvement and also lacked standing to sue. “The Plaintiff is attempting to impeach the Secretary through a declaratory judgement action,” wrote Westby. “The impeachment process does not allow a private citizen to bring such a case, nor does it allow for court involvement other than the Chief Justice presiding over the trial of a governor in the Senate.”

Opinions This Week

National Opinions: Census changes | Vote by mail, II, III | Election security | Election administration, II | The Big Lie  

Alabama: Voting rights 

California: Language access;

Illinois: Voter data | Ranked choice voting 

Mississippi: Secretary of state 

New Mexico: Ranked choice voting 

North Carolina: Cumberland County 

Pennsylvania: Voting Rights Act 

South Carolina: Voting rights 

Tennessee: Vote by mail 

Texas: Tarrant County

Upcoming Events

The Next Phase of the Fight: Challenges to democracy intensified over the summer. The National Guard deployed in California. The Supreme Court ruled on presidential power using the shadow docket. In Texas, an egregious gerrymander has set off a partisan war nationally. Now the fall will mark the next phase in the fight for the Constitution. Will the rule of law hold? How will the 2026 election unfold? Join us on Thursday, September 4, for a virtual event highlighting some of the biggest news stories of the past three months. Brennan Center experts will break down what’s happened and what will come next in the fight to uphold democratic values. When: September 4. Where: Online. 

Fall 2025 Association of Arkansas Counties Circuit Clerks (AACC) Meeting: When: September 9-13. Where: Logan.

Maine Town & City Clerks Networking Day & Annual Meeting: When: September 10. Where: Brewer.

Wyoming Association of County Officers Conference: When: September 23-25. Where: Rock Springs. 

Protecting the Election: AI and Governance Conference at WashU: Join us for this two-day in-person research and practitioner conference at WashU on October 16-17, 2025, to discuss research regarding AI and governance and how this applies to U.S. elections. Research topics include how chatbots can be used to engage with voters, how social media influences voters, what the electorate knew (or did not know) about the candidates and issues during recent elections, misinformation in elections, rhetoric about election integrity, and AI strategies for the administration of elections. We will also hear from practitioners during the conferences about their experiences with and needs for AI in recent elections and their intentions for future use of AI in elections. When: Oct. 16-17. Where: St. Louis. 

NDACo Annual Conference [North Dakota]: When: October 26-28. 

57th Annual Tennessee County Officials Association (COAT) Conference: When: November 16-19. Where: Pigeon Forge. 

2025 New England Association of City and Town Clerks Conference: When: November 19-21. Where: Bangor, Maine. 

Call for Papers and Proposals

Deadline Extended! The 2026 Election Science Conference-within-a-Conference (CwC), co-organized by Lisa Bryant (California State University, Fresno) and Joshua Ferrer (American University), is now accepting proposal submissions through August 22, 2025! The CwC will be part of the Southern Political Science Association (SPSA) Annual Meeting, which will be held January 14-17, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana. We hope to elicit broad participation from those focused on Election Law, Election Administration, Election Sciences, State and Local Politics, Voting and Voting Rights, Public Opinion, and Public Administration. For this CwC, we invite submissions in all areas of election sciences. We encourage submissions from all scholars, including practitioners, researchers in advocacy organizations, those from underrepresented backgrounds, graduate students, and early career scholars. Proposals can focus on the American electoral context, as well as the international or comparative electoral environments and systems. Possible topics include, but are not limited to: public opinion about elections, election administration and procedures, voter confidence, threats to election officials (and their implications), voter disenfranchisement, voting methods and voter experiences, racial/ethnic disparities in access to registration and voting, changes in election laws and election reform, elite rhetoric in how election results are processed and reported, voter turnout and behavior.  The CwC will include approximately 10-12 panels of 4-5 papers each, with all panels likely occurring over 1.5 to 2 days for ease of attendance (exact dates and times to be announced later). Panel proposals or roundtable proposals are also welcome. If you are part of an organized panel, all papers should be submitted individually and indicate they are part of a panel. (There is a panel option on the form.) Per the conference organizers, please DO NOT SUBMIT THE SAME PAPER TO THE SPSA CONFERENCE WEBSITE IF YOU ARE SUBMITTING TO THE CWC. This results in papers being double booked at the conference. 

Job Postings This Week

electionlineWeekly publishes election administration job postings each week as a free service to our readers. To have your job listed in the newsletter, please send a copy of the job description, including a web link to mmoretti@electionline.org.  Job postings must be received by 5pm on Wednesday in order to appear in the Thursday newsletter. Listings will run for three weeks or till the deadline listed in the posting.

Administrative Specialist, Leon County, Florida– The Administrative Specialist provides a wide range of administrative support, coordination, and project management to the Leon County Supervisor of Elections Office (SOE). This position works under the supervision of the Human Resources Coordinator to support human resources, accounting, training, scheduling, clerical, and compliance monitoring efforts for the SOE. The office is home to approximately twenty-five, year-round staff members supplemented during election years by dozens of temporary, seasonal staff. The position requires great attention to detail, outstanding communication skills, comfort working with a wide variety of people, and proficiency with data and spreadsheets. Salary: Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Administrative Specialist, King County, Washington – The Department of Elections is searching for energetic and resourceful professionals who like to “get stuff done”. The Administrative Specialist II positions in the Voter Services Department combines an exciting, fast-paced environment with the opportunity to cultivate talents and apply a variety of skills. The ideal candidate will have a desire to help ensure the democratic process through public service. They will thrive in an innovative environment and will not hesitate to roll up both sleeves, work hard, have fun, and get the job done. Job Duties: Provide excellent customer service to internal and external customers in person, via telephone, and via e-mail by processing voter registrations, communicating election program information and explaining election procedures, guidelines and regulations. Provide backup support for translation and/or interpreting and proof election-related documents and web materials from English to Chinese (traditional text). This includes but is not limited to voter registration information, letters, and other correspondence, notice of elections, ballot titles, voters’ pamphlet information, candidate statements, ballot measures, etc. to limited English speaking (LES) voters. Perform production-level computer work which includes accurate data entry, retrieving and editing records. Organize and coordinate work activities and assist with providing training and one-on-one instruction to diverse staff. Set up records and file documents in both electronic and paper formats. Review documents for proper format, accuracy, completion, eligibility, and other legal guidelines. Audit work group data entry activities to ensure performance quality and efficiency of work. Utilize spreadsheets, word documents and reports to track and document performance data. Research and resolve questions from staff, citizens and stakeholders. Document and improve work processes, procedures and instructions. Salary: $27.03 – $34.40 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Assistant Registrar of Voters, Santa Clara County, California– Under general direction, the Assistant Registrar of Voters supports the planning, organization, and oversight of the County Registrar of Voters Department. This executive leadership position reports directly to the Registrar of Voters and plays a key role in administering and managing departmental operations. The department is responsible for voter registration, the conduct of elections, and related electoral services. The Assistant Registrar of Voters helps ensure that all activities are carried out efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This position may assume the responsibility of the Department in the absence of the Registrar of Voters. Salary: $194,184.52 – $249,180.63. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Community Engagement Coordinator, North Charleston, South Carolina– Partner with the Community Engagement Manager to identify and expand non-partisan community relationships. Cultivate connections with local businesses and civic organizations to boost visibility and support. Solicit and analyze community feedback to enhance outreach strategies. Create brochures, flyers, presentations, and digital content to educate the public about elections and voting procedures.Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications Manager to maintain clear, consistent, and timely messaging across platforms. Manage and update the outreach section of the agency’s website. Deliver presentations and training during outreach events. Plan and coordinate mid-scale public events such as National Voter Registration Day and poll worker appreciation initiatives. Represent BVRE at outreach events, tabling opportunities, and community meetings. Track outreach activity and report on engagement metrics and outcomes. Support special projects including the “I Voted” sticker contest, Adopt a Polling Location, and poll worker recruitment. Research best practices to enhance and expand outreach programming. Assist in maintaining a centralized repository of outreach materials and resources. Salary: $50,440 – $66,060. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Customer Success Manager, ElectSure– ElectSure, a leading provider of training and technology solutions for election administration offices, is seeking a proactive and empathetic Customer Success Manager (CSM) to lead client satisfaction and success across our service lifecycle. This is a high-impact role designed for a results-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced, startup environment and is passionate about delivering excellence to public-sector clients. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Deputy of Elections, Yolo County, Califorina– The Yolo County Assessor/Clerk- Recorder/Elections Department is seeking an accomplished professional to serve as Deputy of Elections. This leadership position plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient, transparent, and secure administration of elections in Yolo County. The role requires strategic oversight, operational management, and technical expertise, as well as the ability to lead a skilled team in delivering services that uphold the highest standards of public trust. Yolo County offers a unique quality of life—combining the charm of historic communities, vibrant cultural offerings, and a strong sense of civic engagement with the advantages of proximity to Sacramento and UC Davis. Our department is nationally recognized for excellence in elections administration and is deeply committed to fostering professional growth, innovation, and collaboration among staff. We encourage professionals with proven leadership experience, strong analytical and organizational skills, and a commitment to serving the public to apply. This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected, forward-thinking department and to make a meaningful impact! Salary: $111,321.60 – $135,304.00 a year. Deadline: August 25. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Election Analyst, Charleston County, South Carolina– Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for public service and a knack for technology? Join us as an Election Analyst and play a vital role in ensuring the security, efficiency, and accuracy of elections in our community. At the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, we are not just managing elections—we’re shaping the foundation of democracy. As an award-winning office known for our commitment to excellence and innovation, we invite you to be part of a team that is redefining what it means to serve the public. Our mission is to daily serve the Charleston County voting constituency with Vigilance, Objectivity, and Transparency in a manner that promotes due diligence Excellence in all aspects of Elections Management. Why Join Us: 1. Trusted Stewards of Democracy: We lead the way in secure, accessible, and transparent elections, earning statewide and national recognition for our performance. 2. Frontline Impact: As an Election Analyst, your work will directly impact how voters experience democracy—from the reliability of equipment to the confidence in results. 3.Culture of Innovation: We’re constantly improving election systems, training programs, and precinct operations to ensure our voters get the best experience possible. Salary: $45,052 – $58,988. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Election Assistant, St. Charles County, Missouri – The purpose of this position is to assist the Director of Elections in the Administration of elections. Lead and train intermittent employees at all satellite voting sites. Set up and manage election equipment, on demand ballot printers, poll pad voter check in stations and ADA compliant ballot marking devices at satellite voting sites. Lead Initiative Petition temporary staff. This position acts under the supervision of the Assistant Director of Elections. Salary: $45,192.76. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Election Specialist, Candidate Services, Palm Beach County, Florida– This position is responsible for the management and execution of services provided to candidates, political committees, electioneering communication organizations, political parties, community development districts, and special taxing districts. This includes establishing and maintaining an organized system for managing the required forms and records associated with filing and qualifying for office, candidate petitions, campaign finance reporting, financial disclosures, initiative petitions, and other related activities. Candidate Services staff must be organized and personable with a great attitude, be able to work well in a team environment, and meet deadlines under pressure. Excellent work ethic, including consistent performance, integrity, reliability, and attendance, is a must. Must be detail-oriented, be able to handle simultaneous projects, and be a self-starter. Salary: $21.63 – $24.04. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Elections Filing Manager, Arizona Secretary of State’s Office– The Elections Filing Manager oversees the Division’s filing operations and works with other Elections Manager(s) and the Deputy State Election Director to ensure the Division’s compliance with state and federal laws and regulations relating to initiative, referenda, recalls, new party and candidate nomination petition processing, E-Qual, petition circulator registration, officeholder financial disclosures, campaign finance and lobbying filings. The EFM manages Division staff and interns, and communicates frequently with counties, cities/towns, officeholders, candidates, and the regulated community. Manages the day-to-day operations of the Elections Filing Team. Responsible for managing staff, projects, and operations and ensuring compliance related to initiative/referenda/recall/new party/candidate nomination filings and processing, petition circulator registration, official events such as the official canvass and Electoral College, campaign finance, E-Qual, officeholder financial disclosures and lobbying. Responsible for ensuring related handbooks and forms are created/updated timely and accurately. Responsible for the filing internship program. Act as project manager for election related IT systems including but not limited to Beacon, Candidate Portal, E-Qual, EMS, Circulator Portal, Lobbyist Portal and the Petition Management Services System. Oversee the development of all election related IT systems, provide guidance to IT regarding the business requirement documents for election related IT systems and work with staff to provide specifications/guidance for IT development. Ensures legal compliance and functionality and facilitate on-going positive user experience. Provide research and confirmation of the statutory requirements of filings, conduct QA tests on the election related IT systems and software. Assists with customer service needs on topics such as E-Qual, campaign finance, petition filings and financial disclosures. Helps create and maintain accurate content for the website in areas specific to their role. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Information Systems Director/Chief Information Officer, Oregon Secretary of State’s Office–  In this role, you will provide strategic direction promoting the successful execution of Information Systems Division (ISD) objectives for the Office of the Oregon Secretary of State. This role acts as a strategic partner to the Secretary and uses the tools of technology to help advance their vision and build trust with Oregonians. Enabling the systems and services to serve their customers by planning and supporting the technology behind the people. This division provides secure, high-quality information technology solutions and services to the Agency that spans diverse client and server operating systems, a variety of database management systems, and hardware from various vendors. Services include consulting, contract administration, application development and support, data administration, server operations PC support, and network system administration. Salary: $13,167 – $21,433/per month Non-PERS Rate. Deadline: September 2. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Information Technology Specialist, Leon County, Florida– The Information Technology Specialist provides support for a wide variety of technologies, primarily specializing in desktop hardware. This technical support position, as part of the Information Technology team at the Leon County Supervisor of Elections Office (SOE), deploys computer images, provides support for desktop computers, and assists with security and protection of SOE technology and infrastructure. Salary: $40,000 – $50,000. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

IT Assistant Manager, Palm Beach County, Florida– The Assistant IT Manager plays a supportive role in the smooth operation of the IT department, ensuring that both the technical infrastructure and the team are aligned with the organization’s goals. This position involves collaborating closely with the Election Technology Director to oversee the implementation of technology solutions that meet the needs of the organization. The Assistant IT Manager helps maintain an efficient and effective IT environment. Oversee daily operations of the IT department, including help desk operations and performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring efficient workflow. Hold department meetings and provide weekly performance summary. Manage IT projects under the direction of the Election Technology Director, ensuring timely completion, budget requirements, and organizational needs. Enforce IT policies and procedures to ensure data security, network access, and system availability. Assist in the management of IT staff by developing skills, coaching, and communicating job expectations. Coordinate vendor renewals, assist with IT budget development, and manage grant applications. Evaluate and assist in maintaining the organization’s disaster recovery and business continuity plans for IT. Assist with IT Public Records requests research and fulfillment. Assist the Election Technology Director in all facets of IT operations. Lead projects and mentor team members. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Organizer, Minnesota– We are looking for a creative and collaborative Organizer to join the Common Cause team in Minnesota. This is a key role supporting our organizing and outreach programs and promoting civic engagement across the state. This is a full-time role reporting to the Executive Director, Minnesota and is based in Minnesota, with a preference for candidates located in Olmsted County or St. Cloud, with an expectation to travel around Minnesota at least 2 days per week, with a maximum of 5 days a calendar week during the legislative session, and peak summer engagement season. This is a termed position, starting on November 1, 2025 and ending October 31, 2027. Salary: $63,860 – $80,340 a year. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Physical Security Specialist, Palm Beach County, Florida– This position is responsible for administration of the physical security programs in a manner consistent with Supervisor of Elections Office policies, procedures, quality standards, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. These programs include conducting facility security risk assessments, assisting with access control, monitoring alarms and CCTV systems, and providing security related training. Must be organized and personable with a great attitude, be able to work well in a team environment, and meet deadlines under pressure. Excellent work ethic, including consistent performance, integrity, reliability, and attendance, is a must. Candidate must be detail-oriented and understand the importance of security and safety for all. Must be available 24/7 365, be able to handle simultaneous projects, and be a self-starter. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Precinct Manager, Charleston County, South Carolina– Are you driven by a passion for democracy and civic engagement? Join the Board of Voter Registration and Elections as a Precinct Manager and play a critical role in delivering seamless, fair, and accessible elections. Key responsibilities: Poll worker recruitment and management; Polling location management; Liaison and community engagement; Support for election operations on Election Day and early voting; and Team leadership. The Board of Voter Registration and Elections is an award-winning organization dedicated to excellence in electoral processes. Our mission is to daily serve the Charleston County voting constituency with Vigilance, Objectivity, and Transparency in a manner that promotes due diligence Excellence in all aspects of Elections Management. We are committed to continuous improvement, innovative practices, and exceptional service to our community, ensuring every voter’s voice is heard. Salary: $68,140 – $89,252. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Program Manager, Center for Tech and Civic Life– When you think about elections, you might think about popular candidates, “I voted” stickers, and all sorts of paperwork and deadlines. But behind the scenes are thousands of election officials in state and local governments who are working hard to make sure ballots are counted and voices are heard. At a time when election officials are facing unprecedented challenges and scrutiny, they need support in order to administer secure and inclusive elections and build trust among the public. As Program Manager for the Values and Standards for Election Excellence (VSEE), you will support adoption and maintenance of a new set of standards that make clear what high performance looks like in U.S. election administration. This is big, bold work at the forefront of election administration, so an entrepreneurial spirit will help you succeed. You’ll report to an Associate Director in the Government Services department. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Program Manager, Common Cause– We are looking for a collaborative and highly organized Program Manager to join the Common Cause team in California. In this role, you will lead and implement state programmatic efforts, manage relationships with key stakeholders, and coordinate advocacy activities to support our programmatic agenda. You will play a key part in advancing our mission to protect democracy and ensure the fair and equitable representation of all communities. The Money in Politics Program Manager will lead statewide efforts to reduce the undue influence of wealthy donors, corporations, and special interests in California’s political system. The role focuses on advancing policies and coalitions that promote campaign finance reform, strengthen disclosure, and improve public financing of elections at the local and state level. This position is ideal for someone passionate about building a more inclusive democracy, experience in policy advocacy, and skilled in organizing diverse coalitions and stakeholders. This is a full-time role reporting to the Deputy Director of California and based in California, with an expectation to travel around the state at least 8-12 days per quarter. We hope our new Program Manager will start in October. Salary: $82,400 – $97,850 a year. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Research Associate, CEIR– CEIR is seeking a dedicated and qualified Research Associate – Data Analysis to join our team (highly qualified candidates may be considered for a Senior Research Associate position). The Research Associate will work under the direction of the Research Director and in collaboration with other colleagues to support CEIR’s research initiatives. These initiatives include research and data analysis related to election administration policy, procedures, and practices. As an integral member of the Research team, the Research Associate – Data Analysis will support CEIR’s mission by performing thoughtful data collection, analysis, and visualization for research reports, presentations, and other materials for CEIR’s diverse audience of election officials, policymakers, the media, and key stakeholders. Salary: $53,000-69,000. Deadline: September 15. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Senior Elections Supervisor, Placer County, California– The Placer County Clerk-Recorder-Elections Office has a current vacancy for a Senior Elections Supervisor. The Office is looking for someone with experience in the development, supervision, and administration of elections programs. The ideal candidate will have supervised in an elections office or similar agency that emphasizes cooperation, accountability and transparency and has the ability to communicate effectively with management, staff, other county departments, jurisdictions and the voters of Placer County. To learn more about the Elections Division of the Clerk-Recorder-Elections Office please click here. In addition to the minimum education and experience, the ideal candidate will possess experience and vision in the following areas: State and federal election laws; Voting systems; General operating policies and functions of the California Secretary of State’s Office; Best practices and current trends in successful election administration, community education and outreach programs; Principles and techniques of effective employee supervision and development, training, management practices and public administration. Salary: $69,056.00 – $86,195.20/year. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Training Program Manager, Charleston County, South Carolina– Democracy works best when every election runs flawlessly—and that starts with exceptional training. As Training Manager for the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, you’ll empower our poll managers and staff to deliver elections that are fair, accessible, and trusted by every voter in Charleston County. The Board of Voter Registration and Elections is an award-winning organization dedicated to excellence in electoral processes. Our mission is to daily serve the Charleston County voting constituency with Vigilance, Objectivity, and Transparency in a manner that promotes due diligence Excellence in all aspects of Elections Management. We believe that people are the foundation of successful elections. That’s why training is not just a task—it’s a core function of our mission. When our teams are prepared, voters can be confident that their voice will be heard, and their ballot counted. As Training Manager, you are not simply teaching procedures—you are building trust in the democratic process. You will design and deliver training that helps every poll manager, staff member, and Board member understand the importance of their role, perform it with confidence, and meet the highest standards of service to our voters. Salary: $68,140.00 – $82,000.00 Annually. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Voter Registration and Absentee Manager, Charleston County, South Carolina– Are you driven by public service and committed to ensuring the accuracy of voter registration? Join us as the Voter Registration and Absentee Manager and lead a team dedicated to upholding the integrity of our processes. Welcome to the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, where we are not just an agency, but a dynamic force committed to excellence in democracy. As an award-winning organization, we pride ourselves on our relentless pursuit of improvement to better serve the voters in our community. This role is pivotal to ensuring secure, accurate, and accessible voter registration and absentee voting services. Salary: $70,000.00 – $82,000.00 Annually. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here. 

Voter Services Clerk, Seminole County, Florida – The Voter Services Clerk serves as the primary customer service representative for the Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Office. This position is responsible for the accurate maintenance and entry of voter registration information, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of voter data, and providing essential assistance to voters, including answering inquiries and processing voter-related documents. The Clerk will also be involved in various clerical and administrative tasks associated with voter services, ensuring compliance with applicable state and federal election laws. Responsibilities include processing new voter registrations, updates or changes to existing registrations, vote-by-mail ballot requests, and returns, as well as petition verifications and other voter record-related tasks, providing accurate voter registration and election information to the public in person, by phone, or via mail, in accordance with Florida state laws, regulations, and procedures, conducting research to resolve issues related to voter registration records, utilizing sources both within the voter database and external government websites or online resources, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of voter registration records by verifying information, validating signatures on candidate and initiative petitions, maintaining and update street maintenance files to ensure an up-to-date and accurate residential address database for Seminole County. Salary: $17 – $22 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

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