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Election News This Week

Primary Updates:  Voters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts headed to the polls for a soggy primary this week. Tuesday represented the first election in Massachusetts where vote-by-mail and early voting were permanent law and many folks took advantage of both making for a slow, relatively drama-free day at the polls. “It’s been kind of slow, but we’re also processing mail-in ballots and early ballots and absentee ballots,” said James Redmond, clerk for Andover’s First Precinct. “I think they’re getting used to the process.” In Pittsfield, City Clerk Michele Benjamin reported a 34.4 turnout rate with many casting their ballots early/by mail. “It’s going pretty well, we haven’t had any problems or anything.” There were no reported issues with redistricting. Besides the rain, the biggest issue on Tuesday came in Barnstable where a mechanical issue with the town clerk’s vault. Officials said the vault, which is used to store ballots, was unable to be opened. “I don’t know what happened to the door overnight, but it broke,” said Barnstable Town Clerk Ann Quirk. “We could not get it open.”  The town clerk printed emergency paper ballots, and the polls opened shortly after 11 a.m. A judge ordered that polls be opened until after midnight to make up for the lost time. In the race for secretary of state, incumbent William Galvin (D) will face Republican Rayla Campbell

Ballot Pre-processing Policies Explained: This week, the Bipartisan Policy Center released a new with ballot pre-processing recommendations that improve the voting experience and the elections ecosystem overall: From Examination to Tabulation: Ballot Pre-processing Policies Explained. In 2020, the lag between the close of polls and release of unofficial results was exploited to spread misinformation. Pre-processing shortens this precarious window while strengthening election security and promoting voter access. BPC Elections recommends three ballot pre-processing best practices: Provide at least seven days before Election Day for pre-processing; Permit election officials to scan ballots into tabulators before Election Day; and Give voters sufficient time for voters to cure issues with their ballot. In this explainer, BPC focuses on the states that allow election workers to run ballots through scanners before Election Day. This policy provides the most preparation for tabulation, which occurs after polls close on Election Day and before the release of unofficial results. By understanding the benefits of this policy along with other ballot pre-election processes (ranging from verifying signatures to curing ballots), policymakers can expedite the release of unofficial election night returns, mitigating the harmful impacts of election mis- and disinformation. You can hear an interview with Rachel Orey, associate director, Elections Project, Bipartisan Policy Center  with SiriusXM about pre-processing here.

War of Words: The war of words in Florida over the recent announcement of 20 cases of voter fraud charged by the state’s new elections police. It seems that many of those caught up in the probe are ex-felons who had been told that their voting rights were restored and were allowed to re-register to vote. Who was responsible for allowing the returning citizens to re-register is at the heart of the ongoing back-and-forth. “There are some local jurisdictions, they just don’t care about the election laws. We do and we think it’s important,” Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), who’s up for reelection in November, said during a recent press conference. “It’s unfortunate. I think it was politically motivated and I hate to say that,” said Mark Earley, Supervisor of Elections in Leon County, home to the state’s capitol. Earley also leads the Florida’s association for Election Supervisors. These elected officials are tasked with administering elections in each county across the state. Earley doesn’t believe the Governor’s choice of words was an accident. “Those statements certainly make it more difficult to get our jobs done. We’re already in an environment stemming from the 2020 election where we’re under more threats and harassment,” Earley said. Earley told WFTS fears the governor is laying the groundwork for more suspensions, only this time it will be someone who shares his rank as a Supervisor of Election. “It certainly was not a vote of confidence in Supervisors,” Earley said in response to the governor’s remarks. “It’s disheartening. This rhetoric needs to quit.”

This and That: Two voting stations in rural Alaska failed to open as scheduled on Aug. 16 election day, leaving local residents with no way to vote in person, additionally two others lacked enough poll workers to operate traditionally, but the division was informed with enough time to offer absentee in-person voting, said Division of Elections Director Gail Fenumiai. Arizona‘s primary election set a turnout record — nearly 35% statewide — that was fueled by early voters. Fulton County, Georgia is still without a chief elections official. More than 3,000 ballots in Hawaii’s primary election were not counted because they were received after the deadline. In Iowa, Secretary of State Paul Pate is partnering with college football coaches to encourage voter registration and turnout.  Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams is partnering with breweries and wineries in the commonwealth to recruit poll workers. North Carolina’s State Board of Elections will not fight a recent decision by the state rules panel blocking its proposed restrictions on party-appointed poll watchers this fall.  New touch-screen ballot machines being used in Rhode Island for this year’s election erroneously displayed some 2018 candidates on the Spanish-language ballot during early voting. The Horry County, South Carolina Council officially requested a statewide probe into the mailing of Democratic absentee ballots to county Republican voters during the June 28 runoff.  Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett announced the return of the state’s high school voter registration award. Dallas County, Texas will spend $50,000 for an assessment that “identifies, assesses and implements key security controls for protection of voters, as well as election workers,” the assessment would also focus on “preventing security vulnerabilities.”

A Little Bit of Fun: And lastly this week, the Wake County, North Carolina Board of Elections reminds us that while elections are very serious business, now more than ever, it’s also important to have a bit of fun.

Personnel News: Brevard County, Florida Supervisor of Elections Lori Scott has announced her resignation after 14 years on the job. Adam Lukenbill has joined the Marshall County, Indiana board of elections. Crystal Clemens is the new clerk for the City and County of Broomfield, Colorado. Mesa County, Colorado Clerk and Recorder Tina Peters has pleaded not guilty to charges related to a security breach of her office’s election equipment. Former Prince William County, Virginia Registrar of Voters Michele White is facing felony counts of corrupt conduct as an election official and making a false statement by an election official, as well as a misdemeanor charge of willful neglect of duty by an elected official. The crimes are alleged to have occurred between August and December 2020, while White was still in office.

Legislative Updates

Crow Wing County, Minnesota: Crow Wing County officials recently gave a group of election deniers some of what they wanted. The persistent county board voted to hand-count November election results in twice as many precincts as state law requires in a post-election review — four instead of two.  The board also voted to produce “cast vote records” — which show how election software reads cast ballots — of the 2020 election and August primary. Some of the commissioners said they had full faith in their elections but were trying to appease activists. The activists, however, were not appeased because they want all the precincts hand-counted and they don’t want the cast vote records to be randomized, although that’s automatically done, county officials said.

Nebraska: Secretary of State Bob Evnen announced this week that a ballot measure asking Nebraskans whether they want to require a photo ID to vote has met the threshold for the November ballot. The voter ID change is an amendment to the state constitution, which requires a higher threshold. In order to qualify, an amendment must garner 10% of voters – or 123,966 signatures – and also 5% in 38 counties. That petition received 136,458 signatures and qualified in 76 counties. Public hearings will be held in each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts about the initiative, according to the Secretary of State. Those have yet to be scheduled and will be announced at a later date.

Pennsylvania: With the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 8 general election weeks away, Gov. Tom Wolf  signed an executive order expanding access to voter registration information. The order designates seven state agencies and programs as “Voter Registration Distribution Agencies,” that will be required to provide voter registration materials and information to state residents. They are: The Department of State (DOS) at public Bureau of Elections, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, and Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations locations; The Department of Agriculture at events at the Farm Show Complex; The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources at 121 state park office locations; The Department of Corrections in connection with Bureau of Community Corrections services; The Department of Education at library locations; The Labor and Industry programs at CareerLink offices; The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at state veterans homes. Under the new order, the impacted state agencies are required to provide access to: An official voter registration mail application that is not specific to any county election office; An accompanying non-postage-paid envelope and instructions explaining where the completed voter registration application should be sent; They also are required to “display nonpartisan signs or posters in highly visible areas to indicate that official voter registration materials are available on-site,” the administration said; The executive order further declares September “Voter Registration Month” statewide. The new order “builds on the requirements of the federal National Voter Registration Act of 1993 which mandates that certain state agencies are required to provide voter registration opportunity to clients with whom they interact.” the administration said.

Lycoming County, Pennsylvania: Voters in Lycoming County will have the opportunity in November to decide whether to keep using an electronic system to tabulate votes. The county commissioners acting as the board of elections accepted a petition signed by approximately 3,200 voters and voted 2-1 to put that question on the November ballot. Members of the loose-knit organization who circulated the petitions claim they want to return to hand counting of ballots to ensure election integrity. Commissioner Rick Mirabito, who cast the lone negative vote, pointed out the question on the petition referred to voting machines. The county does not use voting machines, he said. Voters mark a paper ballot and feed it into the scanner to be tabulated. irabito, a former Democrat state representative, contends there is nothing in the law that gives the commissioners the authority to stop using an electronic voting system.

Upper Arlington, Ohio: After hearing about poll workers being harassed nationally and statewide, the Upper Arlington City Council passed an ordinance to make harassing an election official a crime. The city said it’s not about partisan politics, but about preserving the integrity of the election process. Upper Arlington City Council Member John Kulewicz, said poll worker threats are a real problem. He has proposed a poll worker protection ordinance to protect election workers where he votes. Under the ordinance, the crime of poll worker harassment would be punishable with a misdemeanor and no less than three days in jail. Harassment would be defined under the measure as communication that would threaten, harass, coerce and menace abuse an election official or poll worker in the performance of his or her duties. “There have been reports from other Ohio counties of poll worker harassment in the past couple of years. The president of the National Association of Secretaries of State reported two weeks ago that they are seeing an increased level of threats to election officials,” said Kulewicz.

Richmond, Virginia: A Richmond City Council committee effectively killed legislation this week that would have seen the council elected by ranked choice voting in 2024. The council’s Organizational Development Standing Committee, which is made up of all nine members, voted 6-3 to strike the legislation from the upcoming full council meeting. Councilmember Katherine Jordan introduced the ordinance and said she learned of the concept while running in the last election. She said, personally, she would want to know that she represents the majority of voters in her district, regardless of which choice she was.  “With this, you know that you could have confidence of saying, this is my first choice. But you know what, I’m okay with this other person to what I want I don’t want is this third candidate,” Jordan said. Richmond’s registrar would be tasked with implementing the new system if approved and Registrar Keith Balmer said voter awareness would be the biggest challenge but added that his office is prepared to engage the community. “Because one thing I don’t want is for voters to go into a polling place in 2024 confused. Like that will fall on me and I wouldn’t feel good about that. So I got to make sure that they understand the process,” Balmer said.

Legal Updates

Colorado: Denver District Court Judge Alex C. Myers has dismissed a case filed by a group of Republican candidates who sought discretionary recounts in the June 28 primaries that alleged El Paso County was not conducting the recount “in a fair, impartial and uniform manner.” The GOP candidates filed a lawsuit in Denver District Court on Aug. 1 and amended it Aug. 5, specifically accusing El Paso County of using “improperly tested and unreliable electronic voting systems” to conduct the recount, completed Aug. 3. In a written order, Myers said he dismissed the claims because there is no recount to stop. When the petitioners filed their amended lawsuit Aug. 5, the recounts had already been completed and their final results certified in El Paso County and by the Secretary of State’s Office on Aug. 3 and Aug. 4, respectively.  The group is now appealing the decision with the Colorado Supreme Court, court filings show. In the appeal petitioners filed with the state Supreme Court, the candidates asked the court to declare the recount results void and reiterated their request for the Secretary of State’s Office to conduct the recount, paid for by the state.

Judge Andrew P. McCallin threw out a lawsuit challenging a primary election recount lost by an indicted Colorado county clerk who alleged voting fraud in her failed bid to become the state’s top election official. Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters filed a lawsuit objecting to the methods used to recount ballots on Aug. 3 but did not ask for the recount to be stopped until the following day, after the recount was completed and several hours after the recount results had been certified by Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold. McCallin ruled that election law only gives him the authority to consider recount challenges while a recount is underway and his jurisdiction stops once it is over and is certified. According to McCallin’s ruling, Peters said that the recount could still be challenged because she claimed it was not conducted under the methods outlined in the law. However, McCallin said that argument would allow a recount to be subject to challenge long after it was completed, pointing out that the law lays out ways for challenges to be quickly resolved so election deadlines can be met. “Allowing these orders to be challenged later would destabilize elections and leave them open for challenge long after the Secretary of State certifies results,” he said.

Connecticut: Superior Court Judge Barry Stevens ruled this week that state Rep. Jack Hennessey’s challenge of the Democratic primary for Bridgeport’s 127th State House District can move forward. The Aug. 9 primary was a two-vote win for City Council Member Marcus Brown after two recounts. Stevens denied Brown’s motion to dismiss the appeal challenging his most “recent” win of the primary. Brown’s attorneys had argued that the specific appeal was filed beyond the 14-day state-mandated deadline. “We strongly disagree and are preparing our responses,” Brown told News 12 Connecticut. The first recount was ordered when Brown was leading incumbent Jack Hennessey, the city’s current longest serving state lawmaker, by five votes. After the recount, Hennessey was declared the winner. “The court has jurisdiction to consider whether the recount should not be approved because it involved the counting of ballots that should not have been counted for any reason,” said Stevens. Brown then filed an appeal in Superior Court claiming many absentee ballots were lost.

Hawaii: U.S. Judge Jill A. Otake has ruled that prior residence in Hawaii doesn’t give U.S. citizens the right to cast absentee ballots for the state in federal elections. “This case is not about the denial or deprivation of the right to vote, but about whether a failure to extend voting rights that do not otherwise exist violates the Equal Protection Clause. The statutes are not unconstitutional merely because they do not grant plaintiffs a right given to others, especially when plaintiffs’ fellow territorial residents lack such a right,” Otake wrote in the ruling. The case was first brought against the United States and the state of Hawaii two years ago, one month before the 2020 presidential elections. The plaintiffs claimed the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) and Hawaii’s corresponding Uniform Military and Overseas Voters Act (UMOVA) unconstitutionally contribute to the disenfranchisement of residents in the territories of Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and American Samoa. Although residents of U.S. territories can vote in primary elections, they are barred from voting in the general presidential and congressional elections. Activists have long decried the situation, pointing out that while residents can’t have their voices heard, territories are still subject to the results of these elections.  The plaintiffs, represented by an international team of attorneys, moved for summary judgment in August, with both federal and state defendants countering. The suit named Hawaii Chief Election Officer Scott Nago, the United States of America, the secretary of Defense, and the Federal Voting Assistance Program and its director David Beirne, as defendants. Otake, at the summary judgment hearing and in her ruling Tuesday, noted that although the plaintiffs raise fair points about the limitations on voting rights for those living in the U.S. territories, “plaintiffs’ continued efforts to transform this issue into one concerning territorial voting rights is misguided and ineffective,” she wrote. Otake rejected the plaintiffs’ claims that the UOCAVA and UMOVA violate the Fifth and 14th Amendments. She found former residents of Hawaii who live in territories cannot be considered a protected class and that U.S. citizens living in territories do not have a superseding right to vote in federal elections. “UOCAVA and UMOVA in fact treat plaintiffs the same as former state residents who move to another state or the District of Columbia, so the actual disparity is nothing close to Plaintiffs’ dramatic portrayal,” she wrote.

Idaho: A jury has found poll worker Laura L. Van Voorhees not guilty of electioneering. The charge stems from Nov. 2, 2021, when Van Voorhees reportedly offered pamphlets printed with information about critical race theory to voters while she worked at the polls. Idaho’s electioneering law specifically forbids circulating “cards or handbills of any kind” within 100 feet of a polling place. Kootenai County Elections Manager Asa Gray told the court that poll workers, including Van Voorhees, all go through training before Election Day. The volunteers receive instruction not to discuss political matters or “anything remotely related to ballot issues” at the polling place, he said. Multiple witnesses testified that they saw Van Voorhees give and offer the pamphlets to other voters at different times of day. Denise Makinson, who supervised Van Voorhees and her fellow poll workers on Election Day, said she instructed Van Voorhees before polls opened not to give the pamphlets to voters. She testified that she told Van Voorhees twice more that day to put the pamphlets away, where voters could not see them. Van Voorhees said she made a “conscious decision” to bring the pamphlets into the polling place because she did not believe giving them to friends was inappropriate.

Maryland: Saying it can prevent “unwarranted suspicion and mistrust in Maryland’s electoral process,” the Maryland Board of Elections filed an emergency petition late last week for permission to begin counting mail-in ballots on October 1 instead of after Election Day as currently mandated. It’s the latest twist in a knot of legal uncertainty surrounding the state’s election system, which is the only one in the United States that prevents officials from counting early ballots early. “Faced with three-to-four times as many ballots and failing to count a single one of them until two days after the election may require 100 to 120 days (or nearly 4 months),” says the petition, filed in Montgomery County Circuit Court by Daniel M. Kobrin of the Attorney General’s Office. “Maryland, however, does not have 100 days; Maryland does not even have the 36 days that the primary canvass required.” The delay in certifying elections could prevent elected representatives from being seated in January as required by law. “The sheer number of ballots caused cascading issues through the local and statewide canvassing and certification process,” the petition says. “In Montgomery County, a recount of the race for County Executive could not begin until August 19, 2022, or 31 days after election day. It was concluded, with final local certification of the results, on August 24, 2022, which was 36 days after election day. In Frederick County, issues with the mail-in ballot canvass required the local board of elections to decertify its results on August 10, 2022, and re-scan all 15,640 mail-in ballots it received.”

Michigan: Promote the Vote filed a lawsuit with the Michigan Supreme Court to place its voting rights measure on the ballot this fall after the state’s elections panel deadlocked along partisan lines, keeping the proposal off the ballot. The Promote the Vote amendment proposes establishing at least nine days of early voting in Michigan, codifying existing voter ID rules in the state constitution and allowing voters to request absentee ballots for all future elections among other changes. The Republican members of the Board of State Canvassers  bucked the Bureau of Elections’ recommendation to certify it for the upcoming election, instead expressing concerns about alleged defects with the Promote the Vote petition raised in a challenge. In its lawsuit, Promote the Vote asks the Michigan Supreme Court to order canvassers to certify the Promote the Vote proposal for placement on the ballot by Sept. 8. Promote the Vote denies that its proposal, if adopted by voters, would abrogate the constitutional provisions alleged by Defend Your Vote, the group that filed the challenge. Promote The Vote also argues that it is too late in the process for canvassers to take up a challenge to the petition form canvassers approved and organizers used to collect signatures to qualify for the ballot.

The Macomb County Republican Party has asked a federal judge to decertify the results of the 2020 presidential election in that county—648 after they were originally certified.  Ever since the 2020 election, my vice chair and I have been pushing and pushing … We really haven’t gained much at all in two years,” Macomb GOP, Mark Forton said in a video that appeared on social media. “I don’t believe a single iota of our elections has been repaired since 2020. There has been different legislative things and so on and so forth but our elections are just as corrupt today as they were then.” Russell Newman, an attorney affiliated with The America Project, one of the most prominent election denial organizations in the country, is representing one of the plaintiffs. The lawsuit, which was filed in U.S. Federal Court for Michigan’s western district, was first reported by The Detroit News. It has named Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson as defendants.

Minnesota: A civil lawsuit claims Rice County has not properly responded to data requests for documents regarding elections equipment. An attorney for the county says the requested documents simply “do not exist” and all the county’s voting systems comply with state law. The lawsuit was filed recently against Rice County Director of Property Taxes and Elections Denise Anderson by a Lonsdale resident and an attorney from Albert Lea who ran unsuccessfully for Congress. The civil lawsuit outlines document requests made by Kathleen Hagen and attorney Matt Benda. They filed requests under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which requires governmental entities to make many documents available to members of the public upon request. Attorney Anne Goering, who is representing the county, maintains that the county “fully complied” with the state records law requirements. “The plaintiffs in this case are seeking documents that do not exist, and they are unwilling to accept that the data does not exist,” she said.

Missouri: Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft (R) has filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court case Moore v Harper which legal experts believe could radically reshape how federal elections are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures and blocking state courts from intervening. The independent state legislature doctrine would give state lawmakers the power to set election rules and draw congressional maps without any review by state courts. Some legal experts contend the doctrine could also be interpreted as allowing a legislature to refuse to certify the results of a pres­id­en­tial elec­tion and instead select its own slate of elect­ors. The North Carolina case concerns the U.S. Constitution’s Elections Clause, which says: “The times, places and manner of holding elections for senators and representatives, shall be prescribed in each state by the legislature thereof.” In his amicus brief, Ashcroft argues that interpretation of the Elections Clause would not “leave individuals affected by redistricting without a remedy to complain about all kinds of map drawing.” Courts would still have a role, Ashcroft’s brief argues, in certain areas such as “one-person, one-vote and racial gerrymandering.”

South Dakota: U.S. District Judge Lawrence Piersol has approved a settlement in Rosebud Sioux Tribe et al v. Barnett et al. The settlement has the secretary of state’s office and other offices agreeing to be more diligent in protecting voting rights of Native Americans. “The settlement we negotiated details changes that South Dakota must make to provide the voter registration services guaranteed to each and every voter by federal law,” Rosebud Sioux Tribe President Scott Herman said in a statement. The agreement calls for Secretary of State Steve Barnett to have a statewide coordinator to oversee state government and county governments’ compliance with the 1993 National Voter Registration Act. The federal law requires driver’s license offices and public assistance agencies to provide voter registration services. The judge in May had found various violations such as not providing voter registration and not being allowed to vote.  Several state departments — Public Safety, Social Services, and Labor & Regulation — now must continue recent practices that were started this summer. “This agreement requires South Dakota to establish training and accountability mechanisms so voters, including Native voters, actually receive the legally required opportunities to register to vote,” Oglala Sioux Tribe President Kevin Killer said in a statement.

Chief Judge Roberto Lange ordered that the Lyman County commissioner election in November is to go forward as planned, after the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe filed a lawsuit alleging the election would dilute the Native American vote. Lange wrote in his decision that he was “entirely dissatisfied with leaving the 2022 Lyman County commissioner elections unchanged,” and has only allowed the election to go forward because of a plan to resolve the voting rights issue in 2024, rather than 2026. He added the decision did not address the Voting Rights Act issues. The lawsuit was filed in May with the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe alleging the delay of a new redistricting plan for the Board of Commissioners violated the 14th and 15th Amendments and the Voting Rights Act. The delay meant that November’s election would be held under the current at-large system, diluting the Native American vote, according to the tribe. Lange had previously issued an injunction in August that required Lyman County to come to court with a remedial plan. Lyman County came back with a plan to move up the 2024 commission election that will see two Native-preferred candidates on the ballot, instead of leaving it until 2026, according to court documents. The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe had asked instead for a special election in 2023 for the commissioners. Lange acknowledged neither side in the lawsuit liked “the more modest and more surgical approach proposed by this court.” But both sides agreed that time was short when it came to coming up with a new plan two months ahead of the election.

Wisconsin: Waukesha County Circuit Judge Michael Aprahamian has ruled that state law does not allow election clerks to fill in missing address information on absentee ballot. Aprahamian granted motions to block clerks from adding the missing information to ballot envelopes and said the election officials could alert voters about the problem if they wish. At issue is guidance issued by the Wisconsin Elections Commission in 2016 that allows clerks to fix witness certificate errors without contacting voters. The guidance was not challenged until Trump began falsely claiming his election loss was a casualty of widespread voter fraud despite recounts he paid for that confirmed the result. Clerks were able to fill in missing information under the guidance, such as a ZIP code. Republican lawmakers in July voted to eliminate regulations allowing the practice but the commission did not agree to withdraw the guidance to clerks because the three Democratic members voted against doing so, resulting in a deadlock. “It is a little wonder that proponents from all corners of the political spectrum are critical, cynical and suspicious of how elections are managed and overseen when three unelected bureaucrats can defy the legislature and declined to suspend guidance that the joint committee under its oversight authority has determined violates Wisconsin law,” he said.  The decision, which comes two months before the next election, is likely heading to the state Supreme Court, which is controlled by conservative justices.

Opinions This Week

National Opinions: Election workers | Election integrity | Youth vote | Ranked choice voting, II, III, IV | Jim Crow

Alaska: Election reform

Arizona: 2020 election review

Arkansas: Ranked choice voting

California: Fresno County | Ranked choice voting

Florida: Election police, II, III | Ex-felon voting rights

Georgia: 2020 investigation

Maine: Ranked choice voting

Massachusetts: Primary day | Clueless voters

Michigan: Voter data

Minnesota: Election preparation

Nevada: Ranked choice voting

New Jersey: Election administration

Pennsylvania: Voter access

Texas: Election workers | Voter education, II

Virginia: Ranked choice voting

West Virginia: Voter registration

Upcoming Events

College Student Poll Worker Recruitment: In 2020, thousands of college students answered the call to serve as poll workers. This year, local election officials around the country still need more poll workers, especially tech-savvy, multi-lingual young people. Join ALL IN and the Students Learn Students Vote Coalition (SLSV) for a 30-minute webinar to learn about ideas and strategies to recruit college students at your institution to serve as poll workers, which are often paid positions, and additional benefits from establishing and maintaining a relationship with your local election officials. When: 4pm Eastern Sept. 13. Where: Online

National Film Premiere: ‘Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight to Vote’:  American democracy is under threat. In recent years, many states have made it harder for people to vote and easier for partisan actors to subvert valid elections. At the same time, the U.S. Supreme Court continues to roll back Americans’ fundamental rights. Extremists at every level of government are doing their best to stop the emergence of a racially and ethnically diverse democracy and block important and popular policies. How did the United States get here, and what can be done? Please join CAP’s Reel Progress program and acclaimed film company Brave New Films for a nationwide virtual screening of “Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight to Vote.” This powerful 45-minute documentary sheds light on the ongoing threats to free and fair elections in the United States and ways that people can help get democracy back on track. After the film screening, join us for remarks by Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), followed by a panel discussion focused on voting rights and political power and how they intersect with abortion rights and gun violence prevention policies. When: September 15, 8pm Eastern. Where: Online

National Voter Registration Day: National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan civic holiday celebrating our democracy. First observed in 2012, it has quickly gained momentum ever since. Nearly 4.7 million voters have registered to vote on the holiday to date. Celebrated every September, National Voter Registration Day involves volunteers and organizations from all over the country hitting the streets in a single day of coordinated field, technology and media efforts. National Voter Registration Day seeks to create broad awareness of voter registration opportunities to reach tens of thousands of voters who may not register otherwise. According to U.S. Census data from 2020, as many as 1 in 4 eligible Americans are not registered to vote. Every year, millions of Americans find themselves unable to vote because they miss a registration deadline, don’t update their registration, or aren’t sure how to register. National Voter Registration Day wants to make sure everyone has the opportunity to vote. The holiday has been endorsed by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), the National Association of State Election Directors (NASED), the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), and the National Association of Election Officials (The Election Center). When: September 20

Special From the Frontlines:  The United States Supreme Court and American Democracy: View of Three Journalists: The Safeguarding Democracy Project promotes research, collaboration, and advocacy under the leadership of UCLA Law Professor Richard L. Hasen; one of the nation’s leading election scholars. The Safeguarding Democracy Project is built upon the premise that tackling issues of the U.S. election integrity must be collaborative: across ideologies, across scholarly disciplines, and as a bridge between theory and practice. Moderated by Richard L. Hasen and featuring Joan Biskupic, Adam Liptak and Dahlia Lithwick. When: September 20, 12pm Pacific. Where: Online.

FOIA and Government Transparency: A Report Card: In the more than 50 years that the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) has been on the books, it has helped revolutionize Americans’ understanding of how their government works in practice. But the agencies and departments of the executive branch that are covered by the FOIA have persistently attempted to thwart its effective implementation. The most recent statutory update to FOIA took place in 2016, and with several years of experience with the revised law behind us, it’s fair to ask: Is FOIA working better now? If not, why not? What is it like to battle federal agencies and departments weekly to pry loose information dealing with immigration policy, telecommunications policy, and the national security establishment? What additional changes to FOIA are needed to truly make the law work as intended? Join our expert panel as we discuss these and related issues. When: September 22 1pm Eastern. Where: Online

Disinformation, Midterms, and the Mind: How psychological science can help journalists combat election misinformation: Journalism and democracy have been upended by the growth of mis- and dis-information. Countering it effectively requires understanding why people are susceptible, targeted, and how they can become more resilient. Psychological research can teach journalists how to prebunk disinformation and convey credibility in ways that readers, viewers, and listeners can process, which is more essential than ever as November’s elections near. Register now to join the National Press Club Journalism Institute, the American Psychological Association, and PEN America for a free program on Thursday, Sept. 29 to learn how to use these strategies for coverage that informs and empowers your community as it prepares to vote and to discuss the ways disinformation has affected the practice of journalism. The program, which will be held on Zoom, will begin at 11:30 a.m. ET and be followed by a Q&A session. When: September 29, 11:30am Eastern. Where: Online

Vote Early Day: Vote Early Day is a nonpartisan movement of media companies, businesses, nonprofits, election administrators, and creatives working to ensure all Americans have the tools to vote early. This holiday is a tentpole moment for partners of all stripes to engage with voters and urge them to cast their ballots. Created in 2020, Vote Early Day has brought thousands of national and local partners together in celebration and activation to increase the number of people voting early. This collaborative, open-source model—similar to Giving Tuesday and National Voter Registration Day—ensures that millions more Americans take advantage of their options to vote early through on the ground activations, get-out-the-vote pushes, national communications on traditional and social media, and efforts to create a new culture around voting. Vote Early Day plays a unique role in the push to get voters to cast their ballot. We are a trusted, nonpartisan holiday with supporters on both sides of the aisle. We provide a central moment for a wide range of partners (many non- traditional to the civic space) to engage with voters and urge them to vote early. Our collaboration of thousands of diverse partners allows us to engage in places beyond where voters are used to seeing election messages. This allows us to break through the noise and meet voters where they are. When: October 28

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.

Administrator, Maryland State Board of Elections— The Administrator position in the Election Reform and Management Division assists the Director and Deputy Director implementing, managing and supporting various projects related to the election process and improving election administration in Maryland. The duties will include on-going compliance with the Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act, and other federal election laws and any federal funds awarded to the State under these laws. This position will develop and oversee the statewide training and education program for elections officials and judges, including development and issuance of a statewide Elections Judges’ Manual, training curriculum, and an online training system/module. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Arizona Deputy Coordinator, U.S. Elections, The Carter Center— The Democracy Program at The Carter Center works globally to support and strengthen participatory democracy, consistent with human rights. Beginning in 2020, The Carter Center began efforts to support elections in the United States. There are multiple key aspects to this project: establishing nonpartisan observation efforts, tracking disinformation and dangerous speech, contributing to electoral reform, and promoting candidate codes of conduct. The Carter Center is advancing nonpartisan observation efforts in two key states: Arizona and Michigan. These states were selected following assessments completed on multiple states. Nonpartisan observation efforts implemented and/or supported by The Carter Center will differ from existing partisan poll watchers and election-protection groups. The goal of nonpartisan observation is to provide credible and transparent information on the conduct of elections in each state through public reports. The Deputy Coordinator will execute the citizen observation plan and develop partnerships with community-based organizations. They will report directly to the US Elections Coordinator in [Michigan/Arizona] and to the US Elections team in Atlanta. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Assistant Director, Butler County, Pennsylvania— To supervise and direct the operational processes relating to voter registration, voting and elections, ensuring that voters’ rights are protected and votes are recorded and counted accurately. Assists the Director in implementing the day to day functions of the Elections Department. The incumbent supervises the non-exempt staff and answers voter and candidate questions or selects proper course of action to resolve problems. Assists Director in evaluating new technologies for election process. Consults with others regarding clarification of the Pennsylvania Election Code. Refers complex issues requiring clarification of the Pennsylvania Election Code or the Pennsylvania Constitution to the Director of Elections. A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and/or equivalent work experience is required. Significant experience in Computer Science course work or equivalent is required. Prior work experience involving the electoral process is desirable, as is supervisory experience. Must be knowledgeable of State and County voting laws, regulations, procedures, and requirements. Computer, telephone and customer service skills are necessary. Salary: $45,129.18-$63,180.85. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Certification and Training Manager, Washington Secretary of State’s Office— The Program Manager for Certification & Training manages the provision of professional certification and training to state election administrators and canvassing board members in 39 Washington counties. The Certification and Training Program Manager reports to the Elections Director and is a member of the Elections Management Team that advises the Elections Director on direction and policy. The Program Manager is responsible for the administration of the Certification and Training Program of the Elections Division by providing strategic analysis, planning, and management of a program that includes four major functions. There functions are: 1) professional certification and training of local and state election administrators and county canvassing board members; 2) review of county election operations and procedures; 3) the election clearinghouse; and 4) testing of all vote tabulation equipment used in each county during state primary and general elections. The Program Manager makes collaborative strategic judgments and decisions balancing competing program demands or priorities for resources; develops, modifies, and implements division policy; formulates long-range strategic plans and projects, and makes division-wide strategic decisions with the Elections Management Team. Integrates division and office policies and continuously reviews the program for compliance with division and office policies and strategic objectives. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Chief Information Officer, Illinois State Board of Elections— Functions as Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the SBE Information Technology Systems.  Responsibilities encompass full range of information services; application design and development, system administration, data administration, operations, production control, and data communications. In conjunction with the Board, Executive Director, and Executive staff, the CIO determines the role of information systems in achieving Board goals.  Defines goals in terms of statutory obligations to be met, problems to be solved, and/or opportunities that can be realized through the application of computerized information systems.    Prepares and submits budget based projections of hardware, software, staff and other resource needs to adequately provide for existing systems, as well as support of new project initiatives.   Advises Executive Staff in matters relating to information technology.  Develops presentations and reports for the Board and Administrative Staff.  In conjunction with Executive Staff, evaluates system performance to determine appropriate enhancements. Salary: $7,885 – $13,237 Monthly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Civic Information Quality Assurance Associate, The Center for Tech and Civic Life— The Center for Tech and Civic Life’s (CTCL) Civic Info programs help organize the country’s civic information and answer voters’ most pressing questions like, “What’s on my ballot?”, “Who represents me?”, and “What are the responsibilities of my elected officials?” for federal, state, and local levels of government. Our north star is that access to such civic information allows communities to develop lifelong civic engagement habits, resulting in governments that are more reflective of their communities. These communities include voters who are newly eligible, have limited English proficiency, live with disabilities, or are from communities that are impacted by the digital divide or historical disenfranchisement due to race. The Quality Assurance Associate will collaborate with our Research Team work to ensure the completeness and accuracy of our data. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Communications Specialist, The U.S. Election Assistance Commission— The employee and supervisor collaborate to develop the approach, timelines and general framework for projects and, within these parameters, the employee independently plans and carries out the work involved in developing, maintaining, and managing media communication, coordinating with others as appropriate, interpreting and applying policy, determining the content and format for media communication, and consulting with the supervisor on questionable content or issues. The Director of Communications assigns special projects and assignments, defining the nature of the assignment, objectives to be achieved, and resources available. The employee independently resolves most problems that arise, keeping the Director informed on unusual, sensitive or controversial matters. Completed work is reviewed for achievement of objectives and consistency with governing laws, regulations, policies, and the EAC strategic plan. Salary: $74,950 – $95,824. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Departmental Training Coordinator, DeKalb County, Georgia— The purpose of this classification is to develop, coordinate, deliver, and evaluate departmental training programs and learning solutions. The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Develops training programs for departmental employees; creates new and/or modifies existing courses and course materials; researches industry changes; and prepares activities and course assignments. Conducts training and facilitates in-house training programs for employees based on current trends and best practices. Assists employees in meeting certification and recertification requirements for mandated licensure and submits documents for license renewals. Coordinates training logistics to include training room, schedules, attendance tracking, passwords, supplies and set up; and selects or develops teaching aids including training handbooks, tutorials or quick reference guides . Administers and grades course assignments and exams; and tracks and analyzes learning curriculum effectiveness through various evaluations techniques including evaluation of individual performances. Maintains and prepares training and compliance records and prepares related documentation and reports; enters course exam grades; prepares training certificates; and updates compliance databases. Assists with internal departmental communications by preparing newsletters, promotional materials for training programs, flyers for departmental events, or related communications. Communicates with department management, supervisors, other employees, subject matter experts, schools, community groups, volunteers, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Maintains current knowledge of departmental business functions and operations to develop training programs and solutions for improving employee knowledge and performance within business units; and research training industry standards and best practices and applies new technologies. Salary: $52,815 – $81,862. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Deputy Elections Director, Davie County, North Carolina— Performs administrative work with the registration, voting and election activities for the County. Must be willing to perform job duties during pandemics, natural disasters and unexpected  events during planned elections and election schedules. This position is required to work extended hours and weekends during planned elections and election schedules. Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job. Essential job functions: Performs administrative duties for the Director and Board Members and serves as a resource person to staff and the public, as needed; Assists with the supervision of Elections part-time staff and one stop workers in the performance of their daily responsibilities; Assist the Director with annual budgets and grants received; Assists the Elections Director in the interview and selection process of new employees, one stop and precinct workers and training new employees on office procedures and applications; Assists with ensuring proper and efficient conduct of primary and general elections held in Davie County; Maintenance of geo codes/street index, to include all annexations and changes, to insure accuracy for each address; Performs related duties as required. Salary: Minimum hiring range: $33,587. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Deputy County Clerk, Boone County, Missouri— The Boone County (MO) Clerk’s Office seeks a deputy county clerk in its elections division. With general supervision, this clerk processes new and revised voter registrations, provides information to the public on candidates, ballot issues and other election information, determines ballot styles for walk-in absentee voters, verifies petitions, and performs related election duties. Salary: $15.45-$16.41/hr. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Deputy Director, Pinal County, Arizona— Looking for an opportunity to make a difference and make significant contributions to our elections department? Pinal County is seeking a Deputy Director to support and assist our Elections Director with all aspects of elections activities. We are seeking a dedicated individual who is passionate about the democratic process and ensuring integrity and efficiency of election administration. Consider Pinal County, one of the fastest growing counties in the country who invests in every one of it’s 2000 employees. Assist the Director of Elections with the overall planning, organizing, staffing, logistics, and operational activities of the Elections Department. Perform work in collaboration with the Recorder’s Office and other key stakeholders to ensure compliance with all federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and intergovernmental agreements relating to elections. Supervise the activities of staff, volunteers and temporary workers. Oversee and respond to public inquiries regarding elections processes and compliance. Salary: $81,979.00 – $131,166.00 Annually. Deadline: Sept. 15. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Director of Registration and Elections, Fulton County, Georgia— The County is seeking a Director of Registration and Elections (DRE). This position serves as the chief executive responsible for developing goals, objectives, policies, and procedures relating to voter registration and elections in Fulton County. The DRE also prepares, presents, and manages the department’s approved annual budget.  The DRE leads programs and services that ensure safe, free, and accessible voter registration and elections in the County. The DRE ensures accurate collection and maintenance of voter registration data and administers the county elections and associated services, which includes but is not limited to absentee balloting, voter registration, voter education and outreach. The Director collects information and validates candidates for elective office, ensures the availability of training for poll workers, and directs efforts to educate voters on elections in the county. The DRE performs other duties, including preservation, storage, preparation, testing and maintenance of departmental election equipment. Furthermore, the director oversees election district boundaries, and administers the selection of polling places in the county. Salary: $175K-$195K. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Director of Elections, Cumberland County, North Carolina— The Elections Director works under the administrative direction of the County Board of Elections and Executive Director of the State Board of Election. The Elections Director performs professional, managerial, and administrative work for the Board of Elections and carries out all duties or responsibilities as assigned by Chapter 163 of the General Statutes of the State of North Carolina and as delegated by members of the County Board in accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina, GS 163-35 (d) and 163-33.  Reports to the Chairman of the Cumberland County Board of Elections. Salary: $78,784.40 – $132,425.23. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Director of Elections & Chief Registrar, Butler County, Pennsylvania— Seeking a Director of Elections & Chief Registrar with great communication, leadership and organizational skills. Employee reports directly to the Board of Commissioners. Employee is responsible for the overall planning, organization, direction, management, coordination, and oversight of the County voter registration and election processes in accordance with the County Code, the policies of the Board of Commissioners and/or Board of Elections and Federal, State and Local laws and regulations. Working knowledge and familiarity of PA Election laws, laws pertaining to Conduct of Election and Voter Registration and supervisory experience a plus. Must have a minimum of three years’ experience and/or training in the election/voter registration process, course work with an emphasis in business a plus. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Division Director, Illinois State Board of Elections— Subject to Executive Director approval; oversees the administration of human resource programs including, but not limited to, compensation, payroll, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development. Serves as the Board’s subject matter expert relating to personnel and human resource matters. Identifies staffing and recruiting needs; develops and executes best practices for hiring and talent management. Conducts research and analysis of Board trends including review of reports and metrics from human resource information systems. Recommends, implements, and ensures compliance with agency policies and procedures including, but not limited to, hiring, disciplinary actions, employee grievances, compensation plan, and employee performance evaluations. Creates and oversees human resource practices, programs, and objectives that provide for an employee-oriented culture that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, creativity, and knowledge transfer within a diverse team. Oversees the day-to-day administrative aspects of the Board’s personnel programs; accuracy of bi-monthly payrolls; benefits; quarterly and annual EEO/AA reporting; and, employee transaction documentation. Facilitates professional development, training, and certification activities for staff; development and maintenance of agency-wide training programs for on-boarding, staff development, and knowledge transfer. Responsible for the administration and oversight over all disciplinary matters; including: investigation of complaints; conducting witness interviews; documentation gathering; drafting and submittal of investigation findings to Executive Staff; advising Division Directors and Executive Staff on disciplinary matters; and, drafting of formal disciplinary reprimands in accordance with policy. Has administrative oversight of the Chief Fiscal Officer regarding budgetary and fiscal matters under the purview of the Division of Administrative Services. Supervises and evaluates subordinate staff; facilitates knowledge transfers and cross trainings; performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Salary: $6,023.00 – $12,374.00 Monthly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Early Voting Coordinator, Wake County, North Carolina— re you looking to be more involved in your community? Are you ready to be a part of democracy in the making? If so, get ready to roll up your sleeves and become a part of history! Wake County Board of Elections is currently seeking an Early Voting Coordinator to join our dynamic and talented Early Voting Team. The Early Voting Coordinator plays a critical role in the management and logistical planning of Early Voting. This includes communicating, scheduling election service vendors and managing voting site support operations to include the physically demanding work of setting up Early Voting sites. What will you do as an Early Voting Coordinator? Plan and organize all Early Voting operations; Assist with development of Early Voting expansion budget items and analyze budget impacts of new election laws and state directives and incorporate the changes into Early Voting site procedures; Work with Town Clerks, Municipal Administrators, Facility Directors, Special Event Coordinators and Superintendents to secure use of facilities for Early Voting; Manage Early Voting facilities, including scheduling, communication, support, logistics, database management and site setups; Develop Early Voting ballot order and determine the distribution of ballots each Early Voting facility will receive; Update and maintain the Early Voting blog and Early Voting page of the Wake County Board of Elections website; Manage the Early Voting support Help Line; Post-election reconciliation duties to include provisional management, presentations to the Board and assisting with record retention. Salary: Hiring Range: $20.81 – $28.10. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Election Cycle Temp, Pinal County, Arizona— Under supervision, performs the basic duties of Voter Registration and Early Voting during the election cycle as required by state statute for the Recorder’s Office. This position is not covered under the Pinal County Merit System. Incumbents in this position serve at the pleasure of their respective Appointing Authority. The employment relationship of incumbents in this position is “at will” the employee may be terminated at any time, for any reason, with or without cause. Salary: Up to $20/hr. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Election Information Environment Specialist, The Carter Center— The Democracy Program at The Carter Center works globally to support democratic elections and strengthen participatory democracy, consistent with human rights. Beginning in 2020, The Carter Center began efforts to support good elections in the U.S. There are multiple key aspects to this project, contributing to electoral reform, promoting candidate codes of conduct and establishing nonpartisan observation efforts. The Carter Center is seeking a highly qualified Electoral Information Environment Specialist to work on the Center’s US election advisory team under the guidance of the Democracy Program staff. The Electoral Information Environment Specialist will assess and analyze key issues affecting women, the disabled, and disenfranchised groups in the United States. The Electoral Information Environment Specialist will contribute to public and private statements concerning the electoral information environment. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Election Security Intelligence Analyst, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under administrative direction, serves as a team member identifying computer system vulnerabilities in partnership with the Illinois State Board of Elections and Department of Innovation and Technology for local election authorities and other state election partners. Identifies vulnerabilities and provides technical analysis and remediation recommendations for those affected computer systems, including forensic analysis for investigations, monitoring and reporting. Provides technical support to the Cyber Security Information Sharing Program Manager and Cyber Navigator Program Manager of the Illinois State Board of Elections Cyber Navigator Program in coordination with the Department of Innovation and Technology Security Operations Center.  Develops and recommends measures to safeguard systems before and after they are compromised.  Conducts monthly Tech Talks on election security and relevant cyber threats for local election authorities and their IT and security staff.  Develop annual cyber security training for local election authorities. Develops publications, guides, and other election security related resources for statewide distribution. Participates in the development of incident response plans, continuity of operation plans, and tabletop exercise training.  Serves on-call for emergency situations and Election Day.  Travel to attend training sessions, conferences, meetings, etc. is required. Serves as a team member identifying computer system vulnerabilities; reviews existing computer systems of local election authorities monitored by DoIT for security violations.  Document incidents as appropriate.  Perform analysis of systems for any weaknesses, technical flaws or vulnerabilities.  Identifies vulnerabilities and provides remediation recommendations for those affected computer systems, including forensic analysis for investigations, monitoring and reporting. Coordinates with regionally assigned cyber navigators to assist local election authorities information technology staff/vendor mitigate incidents or provide technical support. Monitors network traffic by utilizing intrusion detection devices and other technologies. Monitors activities such as automated notification of security breaches and automated or manual examination of logs, controls, procedures, and data.  Salary: $5,667 – $6,000 Monthly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Business Intelligence Specialist, Tennessee Secretary of State— Summary: Assist in planning and coordinating the computer functions and responsibilities for the Elections Division which includes, but is not limited to: data processing, integrating the statewide voter registration system with county voter registration systems, improve election reporting capabilities; analyzing and resolving technical software issues (25%) for the Division of Elections and 95 county election commission offices, which includes, but is not limited to cybersecurity practices; reviewing and researching regulations, legislation, government codes, and directives relevant to the technical elections operation; including serving as the liaison to the Office of the Comptroller of the Treasury, Local Government; and performing other duties as assigned. This position is responsible for the accuracy and timely compliance and security of voter registration data, ballot review and approval, producing and analyzing election-related state and federal reports, maintaining and assist in updating elections mobile app. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Manager, Cochise County, Arizona— Under limited supervision by the Director of Elections, performs professional and administrative work of a high level in the management of election administration work in planning, organizing and directing strategic and daily goals and objectives, operations and activities of the Elections Department. Performs other related work as assigned. Assists the Director of Elections in the administration and supervision of all County, special, primary and general elections with state and local jurisdictions; Manages program requirements through appropriate delegation and work supervision, organization and assignment of task duties including warehouse organization and inventory, delivery and return of election supplies to polling places, poll workers, election boards, training and pay, website, and submitting meeting agenda items; Assists with ballot creation process including proofreading all ballot styles, sending ballot proofs to candidates and jurisdictions, and creating and reviewing ballot orders; Assures accuracy of election materials and maintains chain of custody of ballots, forms, equipment, and materials; Programs, tests, and maintains all voting equipment, following Federal, State, and local requirements; Recruits, coordinates, trains, manages, supervises, and terminates seasonal or temporary staff in consultation with the Director; Develops and presents poll worker education and curriculum for online and in-person training; Assists with ballot tabulation duties including coordinating, hiring, and training the Early Boards to receive, count and prepare early ballots for tabulation, assists with oversight of receiving Boards on Election night to receive and tabulate the polling place ballots, assists with Hand Count Boards as part of the election audition process and completes necessary reports related to canvass of election and post-election audits; Assists with election night reporting, including preparing the necessary data uploads into the State’s reporting system; Assists with oversite of the departmental budget and administers office financial tasks including but not limited to, inputting requisitions, tracking expenditures and budget reconciliation, lease agreements, paying invoices, overseeing and maintains inventory for equipment and supplies and assists with annual budget preparation; Delivers effective, accurate, secure, cost-effective customer service relative to areas of responsibility. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Specialist Trainee, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under direct supervision of Voting and Registration Systems (VRS) personnel, during a training period of up to 12 months in order to qualify for the target title position of an Election Specialist I, provides assistance in the operations of the division’s activities and programs; assists with data analysis to ensure accuracy; assists with voting system testing. Acquires skills needed to provide election system support to election jurisdictions and/or vendors and to navigate the Illinois Voter Registration System (IVRS). Assists with setting up IVRS accounts and provides support with IVRS training that is provided to the election jurisdictions. Acquires skills in order to answer questions from election authorities, vendors, and the general public pertaining to the IVRS database, voting systems, pretesting, public testing, and referenda. Assists with the testing of vote tabulation equipment, including voting system approval testing and SBE Special Testing. Assists with the collection of information pertaining to voting systems, including, but not limited to, systems in use in the state of Illinois, pre-election testing, and post-election auditing. Provides assistance with testing new views, troubleshooting, and resolving issues within IVRS. Utilizes knowledge and skills from working environment in order to complete all projects. Assists with updating and revising division documents, gains skills and knowledge of election-related opinions, statute, and legislation pertaining to division responsibilities. Assists with monitoring of public viewing stations, including the processing of viewer information and ensuring that viewers use proper procedures. Develops knowledge in order to answer questions and concerns from election authorities and the general public on a variety of election-related topics. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Salary: $2,760.00 – $2,917.00 Monthly. Deadline: Sept. 13. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Finance and Operations Manager, The Carter Center— The Finance and Operations Manager support The Carter Center’s nonpartisan Observation efforts by managing the finance and operations in both states. They will report directly to the US Nonpartisan Observation Coordinators in Michigan and Arizona and to the US Elections team in Atlanta. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Government Affairs Director, National Vote at Home Institute— The National Vote at Home Institute (NVAHI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit nonpartisan organization dedicated to expanding the use of mailed-out ballots in local, state, and federal elections across the U.S. Through our education, research, and advocacy efforts with state and local election officials, policymakers, and partners, NVAHI works to expand this secure, convenient, and voter-supported method of voting and works to ensure state and local election officials have the tools, training and support they need to conduct successful, transparent, accurate and secure mail ballot elections.  The Government Affairs Director serves as an integral leader for the organization, working with the Executive Director, Board, and staff shaping and executing the strategic priorities for NVAHI. This position routinely interacts with key stakeholder groups, national leaders, state and local elections officials, research professionals/institutions, funders, and partners. This position reports to the NVAHI Executive Director and is responsible for all election official engagement efforts on behalf of NVAHI. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Information Services Specialist, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under the general supervision of the Chief Information Officer and Deputy Chief Information Officer and the day-to-day supervision of the Information Services Team Leads, independently and as a project team member, develops, maintains, and enhances the State Board of Elections’ Information Systems. Establishes application development task schedules, testing plans and implementation schedules; Performs technical analysis, design, and programming according to SBE standards; Coordinates development, testing and implementation with end-users, technical consultants and IT Staff according to SBE standards. Consults with end-users to determine application goals, requirements, cost, architecture, and impact to existing systems; Provides Level 1 technical support for Agency end-users as well as end-users of other agency-developed systems. Through continuing self-study and/or formal coursework, acquires knowledge of advanced information systems concepts and techniques, productivity tools, election law, and Board policy as they affect Board Information Systems. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Information Technology Security Analyst, Illinois State Board of Elections— The IT Security Analyst reports directly to the Manager of Cyber Operations and Infrastructure. Supports the administration, implementation, review, and improvement of endpoint, network, hardware, application, and data security practices. Implements, supports and monitors the agency’s information security applications, including email security, web security, endpoint security software, firewalls, intrusion prevention applications, data loss prevention, etc. Monitors system dashboards and logs for threat indicators. Analyzes data and performs necessary incident response procedures. Conducts network, system and application vulnerability assessments. Analyzes agency threat surface and makes recommendations to management to harden agency systems. Evaluates agency processes and implements and/or makes recommendations to enhance security. Reviews information received concerning threat events from end users, supervisory personnel, other federal, state, county and local agencies and governmental entities involved in the exchange of data with the State Board of Elections (SBE), external entities such as the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), Elections Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC), trusted cybersecurity vendors, law enforcement agencies, and public information sources. Consults with SBE staff on security issues. Provides a high level of customer service to agency staff, state, county, and local election officials. Ensures service desk queues and incidents are handled in an appropriate and timely manner. Salary: $6,264 – $8,917 Monthly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Michigan Deputy Coordinator, U.S. Elections, The Carter Center— The Democracy Program at The Carter Center works globally to support and strengthen participatory democracy, consistent with human rights. Beginning in 2020, The Carter Center began efforts to support elections in the United States. There are multiple key aspects to this project: establishing nonpartisan observation efforts, tracking disinformation and dangerous speech, contributing to electoral reform, and promoting candidate codes of conduct. The Carter Center is advancing nonpartisan observation efforts in two key states: Arizona and Michigan. These states were selected following assessments completed on multiple states. Nonpartisan observation efforts implemented and/or supported by The Carter Center will differ from existing partisan pollwatchers and election-protection groups. The goal of nonpartisan observation is to provide credible and transparent information on the conduct of elections in each state through public reports. The Deputy Coordinator will execute the citizen observation plan and develop partnerships with community-based organizations. They will report directly to the US Elections Coordinator in [Michigan/Arizona] and to the US Elections team in Atlanta. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Program Associate, 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 administrators in state and local governments who are working hard to make sure ballots are counted and voices are heard. U.S. election officials want to administer elections where every eligible voter can easily and securely cast their vote, but they often need support to achieve these outcomes. To serve every community and make democracy work, election departments need a new set of values and standards for excellence. As Program Associate, you will help build a new set of standards that make explicit what high performance looks like in U.S. election administration. Think Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, but for local election departments. This is big, bold work at the forefront of election administration, so an entrepreneurial spirit will help you succeed. To build the standards and support their rollout, you’ll collaborate closely with internal teammates as well as external partners, including state and local election officials. You’ll report to the Program Manager in the Government Services department. If you care about democracy, if you believe in the importance of public service, and if you love to exceed expectations, this is the job for you. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Public Relations Manager, DeKalb County, Georgia— The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff; develops and oversees employee work schedules to ensure adequate coverage and control; compiles and reviews timesheets; approves/processes employee concerns and problems and counsels or disciplines as appropriate; assists with or completes employee performance appraisals; directs work; acts as a liaison between employees and management; and trains staff in operations, policies, and procedures. Organizes, prioritizes, and assigns work; prioritizes and schedules work activities to meet objectives; ensures that subordinates have the proper resources needed to complete the assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; consults with assigned staff to assist with complex/problem situations and provide technical expertise; provides progress and activity reports to management; and assists with the revision of procedure manuals as appropriate. Develops and implements a comprehensive communications plan to support the mission and objectives of the department/division; develops communications strategies; reviews internal and external communications to ensure consistent messaging; creates and implements branding initiatives; manages online presence; and generates public relations campaigns to support special projects, service changes, and new initiatives within the department. Oversees the creation of print and online content to publicize and promote department programs, facilities, events, or objectives; researches and verifies information; reviews, approves, or produces newsletters, calendars, brochures, and flyers; monitors, approves, and creates content for social media and department website; and writes or edits official department announcements, emails blasts, press releases, letters, or posts. Oversees community outreach programs and events; plans, organizes, and oversees special events, facility tours, educational programs; oversees the selection of locations, dates, and sponsorships; reviews activities and materials prepared by staff or vendors; recruits and supervises event volunteers; and coordinates set-up, staffing, and implementation of program/event plans. Represents department as a spokesperson; serves as a liaison to the news media, other departments, boards, and other external groups; responds to media requests; gives interviews and official comments; and produces short television segments for DeKalb County TV. Cultivates community partnerships to advance departmental objectives and initiatives; develops and maintains relationships with community partners; attends or leads community events on behalf of the department; responds to inquiries from citizen groups or the public; and serves on internal and external committees or projects. Prepares and monitors public relations budget; prepares cost estimates; develops annual budget requests; and reviews and approves expenditures. Salary: $67,182 – $104,133. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Publications and Clearinghouse Program Specialist – Certification and Training Program, Washington Secretary of State’s Office. — The certification and training program oversees, directs, and advises County Auditors in interpretations of federal and state election law and the correct administration of voter registration and elections throughout the state. The certification and training program reviews county practices for adherence to election law and best practices, provides essential tools for election administrators through official communications and training, and acts as liaisons for the Office of the Secretary of State. This position reports to the certification and training program manager and is responsible for overseeing, reviewing and advising county auditors on the federal and state elections laws and the administration of voter registration. Serves as the lead program specialist in the Elections Publications and Clearinghouse Program. Salary: $57,324-$77028. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Senior Programmer Analyst, Clark County, Nevada— This position provides project and program leadership to professional and technical staff; performs applications systems design, modification and programming of a routine to complex nature in support of County administrative and business services for multiple computer platform applications. Provides lead direction, training and work review to a programming project team; organized and assigns work, sets priorities, and follows-up and controls project status to ensure coordination and completion of assigned work. Provides input into selection, evaluation, disciplinary and other personnel matters. Gathers and analyzes information regarding customer systems and requirements and develops or modifies automated systems to fulfill these needs. Conducts feasibility studies and develops system, time, equipment and cost requirements. Using computer generated techniques, simulates hardware and software problems, tests and evaluates alternative solutions, and recommends and implements appropriate applications design. Develops program logic and processing steps; codes programs in varied languages. Plans and develops test data to validate new or modified programs; designs input and output forms and documents. Troubleshoots hardware and software problems, as needed, for customers, other agencies and information systems personnel. Writes program documentation and customer procedures and instructions and assists user departments and staff in implementing new or modified programs and applications; tracks and evaluates project and systems progress. Writes utility programs to support and validate adopted systems and programs. Confers with customer department staff regarding assigned functional program areas. Maintains records and prepares periodic and special reports of work performed. Maintains current knowledge of technology and new computer customer applications. Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit’s service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team. Uses standard office equipment in the course of the work; may drive a personal or County motor vehicle or be able to arrange for appropriate transportation in order to travel between various job sites depending upon departments and/or projects assigned. This is an open and continuous recruitment, scheduling dates will vary depending on when the application was received and reviewed by Human Resources. This examination will establish an Open Competitive Eligibility list to fill current and/or future vacancies that may occur within the next six (6) months or may be extended as needed by Human Resources. Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified applicants to the selection process. Salary: $32.07 – $49.74 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

(Senior) Training Associate, Center for Tech and Civic Life— As the CTCL Government Services (Senior) Training Associate, you will develop and deliver training courses and easy-to-use tools that advance the tech and communication capabilities of election officials. Project coordination – Oversee multi-course training series and other major projects by setting goals, creating project plans, coordinating coworkers and partners, and monitoring progress. Continuous improvement – Suggest, hone, and evaluate new approaches to instructional design, such as alternative training formats, materials, or participant engagement practices. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Systems Administrator, Sarasota County, Florida— The Systems Administrator is an Information Technology professional responsible for the coordination, implementation, planning, investigating and serving as the liaison for all facets of data processing, to include any election related tasks. Key Responsibilities: Provides expertise on hardware and software, considering costs and capabilities. Installs new software and hardware, including network operating system, as assigned. Adds new systems to network and ensure all required documentation. Ensures account setup, maintenance, and removal; provides user support. Assists to administer/maintain networked servers. Ensures timely systems backups and maintains logs. Protects data and performs and tests backup processes. Maintain password, trustee and viral security. Maintain network policy and maintenance controls, including network security. Troubleshooting, including maintenance and repair of computer equipment. Assists with ballot preparation, processing and tabulation. Performs equipment tests to include election and computer equipment as needed or assigned. Responsible for network design. Participates in the review and revision of security and emergency procedures and the maintenance of the information system disaster recovery plan. Maintains system software licenses and supervise all software installations. Salary: $40,996-$87,630. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Technology Associate, 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 administrators in state and local governments who are working hard to make sure ballots are counted and voices are heard. To serve every community and make democracy work, election administrators need 21st-century tools and training. You can help them get it! As a CTCL Technology Associate, you will implement streamlined, digital learning experiences that advance the tech and communication skills of America’s election administrators. The Technology Associate will work with the Government Services team and report to the Senior Program Manager. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Voter Education & Outreach Specialist, Washington Secretary of State’s Office— This position reports to the Voting Information Services Manager of the Elections Division and works collaboratively to provide outreach and educational services. This position leads onsite customer service to candidates during annual peaks, voters’ pamphlet training for internal staff, organization of printed materials for proofing, fulfillment of outreach materials to stakeholders, and coordinates the printing and distribution of the state Voters’ Pamphlet. The passage of new legislation (ESHB 2421) increases the business needs to be met by the Secretary of State’s Office. Each May and June, the office must preview and process candidate’s statements to be printed in local county primary pamphlets as well as the processing necessary July through October for the state general election pamphlet. The Voting Information Services (VIS) team promotes accessible, fair, and accurate elections. Through educational programs and service excellence, we help eligible Washington residents register to vote, file for office, and cast an informed ballot. VIS exercises visionary leadership to publish the state Voters’ Pamphlet. The team provides voters and candidates with essential tools and training, digestible data and auditing reports, outreach programs and publications. VIS also advises County Auditors in interpretations of federal and state election law to uphold the integrity of election administration throughout the state. These objectives are accomplished through official communications, collaboration with stakeholders, and educational publications including the state Voters’ Pamphlet. The VIS program also acts as liaison for the Office of the Secretary of State. Salary: $55,524 – $74,604. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Voting Rights Expert, The Carter Center— The Carter Center is seeking a highly qualified voting rights analyst to work on the Center’s US election advisory team under the guidance of the Democracy Program staff. The voting rights expert will assess and analyze key issues affecting women, the disabled, and disenfranchised groups in the United States. The voting rights expert will contribute to public and private statements concerning the electoral process and provide an impartial assessment of elections as well as detailed recommendations for ways to improve the program’s inclusiveness, credibility, and transparency as it relates to voting access of historically disenfranchised peoples. A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in democracy and/or elections is required, in addition to a degree in political science or another relevant field. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

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