In Focus This Week
U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments in Moore v. Harper
Court’s decision could upend election administration
By David Becker
Center for Election Innovation and Research
The argument in the U.S. Supreme Court in the North Carolina redistricting case of Moore v. Harper was a veritable “lollapalooza” (as former Solicitor General Neal Katyal noted) for both Supreme Court aficionados and neophytes.
It featured some outstanding lawyering, and many probing and insightful questions from all nine justices, most notably including Justice Thomas, who likely asked more questions in a single hearing than he had in over a decade.
At issue in this case was whether the North Carolina Supreme Court overstepped its authority by invalidating the redistricting maps drawn by the North Carolina General Assembly. The legislature argued not that the North Carolina Supreme Court erred in its interpretation of state law to assess the maps, but rather that the state court was precluded by the terms of the United States Constitution’s Election Clause from restricting the state legislature’s efforts with regard to redistricting or the time, place, and manner of federal elections – a theory called the Independent State Legislature theory, or ISL for short.
Under a robust view of this theory, embraced by the North Carolina legislature, the state courts have no power to review anything that relates to the “time, place, and manner” of federal elections, including Congressional redistricting and federal election policies and procedures. While it’s probably going too far to suggest that application of such a theory would allow a legislature to throw out a popular vote for president, after the election, and award electoral votes to the loser, application of this radical theory could allow for a substantial amount of partisan mischief to affect elections and voters, without the benefit of the added layer of protection of state court review.
And this theory is indeed radical. As noted by Republican election lawyer Ben Ginsberg and many others, this would overturn over 230 years of precedent establishing that state courts could review state legislative decisions under state law. Further, as noted by former federal judge and gifted conservative legal scholar J. Michael Luttig, there is nothing in the textual history of the Constitution that would suggest such a novel interpretation.
This is understandable. As Justice Jackson made particularly clear during the arguments, it would be hard to reconcile an interpretation of the Elections Clause that would forbid state courts from interpreting the state constitutions as necessary to restrict state legislative acts relating to elections, when those very same state constitutions created those state legislatures and defined their responsibilities. And as Justice Kagan noted, it would remove the normal checks and balances on legislative decisions from issues relating to electing the very same people making those decisions.
The arguments yesterday clearly defined the positions of the justices. There are three justices (Jackson, Kagan, Sotomayor) who appear highly skeptical of the full version of the ISL theory. There are three justices (Alito, Gorsuch, and Thomas) who appear ready to give an unprecedented carve out of the system of checks and balances to legislatures acting related to federal elections. And three other justices (Chief Justice Roberts, Barrett, Kavanaugh) appear uncomfortable with this erosion of the constitutional framework of three, co-equal branches of government, but also uncomfortable with giving state courts completely free reign in this area, seeking an alternative where, if a state court acts so irrationally so as to exceed their appropriate role in reviewing legislation, that a federal court could limit their jurisdiction and/or discretion. I hesitate to make predictions, but it seems unlikely the most-extreme version of ISL has a majority on this Court, while it’s likely there’s a majority who will leave open the possibility that a state court could, in extreme cases, overstep its authority to review legislative acts in the context of elections.
For those who have never heard a Supreme Court argument before, and who have three free hours (it was one of the longest Supreme Court oral arguments I’ve ever heard), I highly recommend listening to this one. There was excellent lawyering, particularly from the United States Solicitor General, Elizabeth Prelogar, who was the last of the four attorneys to speak. A decision of the Court is likely to be released in June, 2023.
David Becker is the executive director and founder of the nonpartisan nonprofit Center for Election Innovation & Research. He serves as CBS News election law contributor, and formerly served as a trial attorney in the Voting Section of the U.S. Department of Justice. He is the co-author, with Major Garrett, of the book “The Big Truth: Upholding Democracy in the Age of the Big Lie.”
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Election News This Week
Georgia Runoff: Georgia held its U.S. Senate runoff election this week and after record-breaking early voting turnout, Election Day itself was relatively quiet with few lines or problems. “We have really worked hard with the counties and counties have worked hard on that also,” Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said shortly after polls closed. “And that’s just a testament to us working together as a team.” According to Billy Wooten, the Chatham County Board of Elections supervisor, three polling locations had scanners that went down, but voters were able to cast their ballots and place them in the emergency bin. Voting machines at one DeKalb County polling place had technical issues. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, some voters were hindered by last-minute polling place changes. Two Lowndes County poll workers were in an auto accident when they were on their way to the board of elections with memory cards from their polling place. The workers reported suffering no injuries and declined to go to the hospital. An election board member went to the accident site to retrieve the memory cards and check on the workers. “They seem to be OK to the best of my knowledge right now but we did get the results back. A board member went and picked up the results, brought them back up here for us to upload and then went back to take care of the poll workers,” Deb Cox, supervisor of elections said. While voting was extended by 20 minutes at one Fulton County polling place, overall voting went well in Georgia’s largest county on Tuesday. “Voting was successful with almost no wait times,” Fulton County Interim Elections Director Nadine Williams said.
Serving the Community: Three cheers to the Brevard County, Florida supervisor of elections office that gathered 350 pounds of non-perishable food to benefit central Florida families in need. “Thanks to my staff, our faithful poll workers, and others throughout the community, we collected 350 pounds of food to help Central Florida families in need. It is gratifying to live in a community with such a genuine desire to help those less fortunate,” said Supervisor of Elections Tim Bobanic. “I am very appreciative to all who were kind enough to participate in this year’s food drive.” The office has donated nearly 5,000 pounds of food over the last 13 years.
Thanking Poll Workers: In addition to paying them for their service, elections offices across the country are thinking their poll workers in a variety of ways. Recently, the Wilson County, Tennessee election commission held a holiday dinner for their poll workers. There was dinner, prizes and games. “This event is a small gesture for us to say ‘thank you’ to the special men and women that make elections in Wilson County so good,” said Administrator of Elections Tammy Smith.” Their smiles, competency and commitment to fair and honest elections is inspiring. The service they provide to the voters of Wilson County is tremendous.” More than 350 Wilson County voters served as poll officials in three elections in 2022. If your county has done something extra special to thank you poll workers and seasonal election workers, let us know and we’ll feature it in the remaining weeks of the year.
Personnel News: Chris Gibbs has been nominated to serve on the Shelby County, Ohio board of elections. Fayette County, Kentucky Clerk Don Blevins Jr. will retire at the end of January 2023 after 13 years in office. Outgoing Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea will join the Pell Center at Salve Regina University as a Visiting Senior Fellow. Arizona Secretary of State-elect Adrian Fontes has named Keely Varvel as assistant secretary of state. Sedgwick County, Kansas Election Commissioner Angela Caudillo has resigned. Richland County, South Carolina Elections and Voter Registration Office administrative coordinator Michelle Harrington is stepping down. South Dakota Secretary of State Steve Barnett has resigned from office and Gov. Kristi Noem has appointed Monae Johnson as the interim secretary of state. Texas Secretary of State John Scott will step down from his role as the state’s top elections official at the end of the year. State Sen. Jane Nelson is set to be nominated by Gov. Greg Abbott to serve as the next Texas Secretary of State. Cara Cooke will be the new Eddy County, New Mexico clerk. Gail Fenumiai is retiring as the director of the Alaska Division of Elections. Davina Donahue has been appointed the new Flint, Michigan clerk. J.C. Elgin is stepping down from the Richland County, Ohio board of elections. Kristin Connelly will be the new Contra Costa County, California clerk-recorder, the first woman elected to the role. Paul Stamoulis has resigned as the Charlotte County, Florida supervisor of elections. Joan Massey is stepping down from the Lincoln County, Tennessee election commission. David Scanlan has been elected New Hampshire secretary of state.
Legislative Updates
Boston, Massachusetts: By a 9-4 vote, councilors passed a petition to allow Boston residents aged 16 and 17 to vote in municipal elections, as long as they meet all other legal qualifications. “We have a lot of young people who are working — oftentimes two jobs — just to help support their families, paying taxes and on the front lines protesting and trying to find ways to have their voices heard. And every day we make decisions on their behalf,” said Councilor Julia Mejia, who co-sponsored the petition. Mostly supported by the council’s growing number of progressive members, the docket now makes its way to Mayor Michelle Wu’s desk. If Wu signs off on the home rule petition, it gets passed along to the state Legislature. Mejia expressed some concern about the petition gaining state approval, saying “We know what happens at the State House — most things go there to die.”
New York: Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) has signed a bill into law meant to ensure votes cast by affidavit ballot are still counted, even if the voter appears at the wrong polling place. Votes would still be eligible if the ballot was cast in the correct county and state Assembly district, addressing an issue known as “wrong church, wrong pew” voting. “Access to the ballot box shouldn’t be held up by complicated and unclear voting processes,” Hochul said. “New York continues to lead the nation in taking critical steps forward to protect the fundamental right to vote. My administration is committed to empowering voters and improving the state’s electoral process, which has disenfranchised too many New Yorkers for too long.” The law will require the county and canvassing of affidavit ballots, and not have their vote automatically invalidated.
Ohio: Ohio Republican lawmakers are considering significantly tightening the window by which mail-in ballots must arrive in order to be counted. Under a new version of an elections bill amended by a state Senate committee on Tuesday, mail ballots, also called absentee ballots, would have to arrive by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted. Under current law, absentee ballots can arrive within 10 days after Election Day and still be counted, as long as they are postmarked by the day before the election. The Senate Local Government Committee announced the proposal to end the 10-day acceptance window on Tuesday as it unveiled changes to House Bill 458, which otherwise would largely ban August special elections.
Pennington County, South Dakota: A letter presenting proposed changes to South Dakota election laws was approved by the Pennington County Board of Commissioners this week. The letter, drafted by Pennington County Commissioner Travis Lasseter and addressed to Gov. Kristi Noem, senators and representatives, the South Dakota Secretary of State and the State Board of Elections, proposed establishing a post-election audit, strengthening codified law language pertaining to voting equipment, and tightening residency requirements for voter registrations, among other things. The draft letter was first presented to the board of commissioners at a special meeting on Oct. 26, a meeting called at the request of evangelist and election integrity skeptic Matthew Monfore to address “elections and machines in Pennington County.” The letter’s original draft outlined five points: establishing a post-election audit committee or post-election criteria for the state, strengthening the requirements of SDCL 12-17B-2, strengthening residency requirements for voter registration, improving voter roll updates, and establishing harsh penalties when election laws are broken. The letter also proposed requiring voters to establish residency for 30 days prior when registering to vote. The letter’s fourth point proposed establishing “harsh penalties” when election laws are broken, reading “public trust will be maintained or restored when they see the law has a penalty if not followed.” The fifth point recommended reviewing the South Dakota voter registration form, to add clarity to the form’s Box 12 — an addition to the original draft letter. Box 12 includes the form’s signature box, as well as an explanation of what the voter is attesting to. The updated draft also removed language about voter roll updates.
Texas: Half of the state’s 36 public universities have on-campus voting sites. Two Democratic Texas state senators, Nathan Johnson of Dallas and Jose Menendez of San Antonio have filed Senate Bill 118. It would place at least one polling site for schools with at least 5,000 students, two for universities with 10,000 and one extra site for every additional 10,000 students. Johnson says “we talk all the time about trying to cultivate civic engagement, trying to get young people to vote. Everybody talks about it. Make it easier for them to vote.” He says small cities like La Grange in Fayette County have four polling locations serving about 4,000 people, while the University of Texas at Austin has two polling locations that serve 52,000 people. “A lot of these kids don’t have cars so they can’t drive somewhere else to vote.”
Legal Updates
SCOTUS: The Supreme Court declined to take up a case brought against Dominion Voting Systems and Facebook after the 2020 election by a group of voters who claimed the companies illegally “influenced or interfered with” the contest. Lower courts had previously rejected the case, ruling that the eight voters lacked the procedural threshold – known as standing – needed to bring the suit against parties including the Center for Tech and Civic Life, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan. “The court’s refusal to take up this case is no surprise; the lower courts threw it out because the plaintiffs didn’t have standing, and, even if they did, their claims are frivolous,” said Steve Vladeck, CNN Supreme Court analyst and professor at the University of Texas School of Law. “The fact that no justice even asked Dominion or the other defendants to respond to the petition says everything that needs to be said about how seriously they took this appeal – which is to say, not at all,” Vladeck added.
Arizona: U.S. District Court Judge John Tuchi ordered sanctions against the attorneys of Kari Lake and Mark Finchem in their lawsuit against voting machines, hoping to deter “similarly baseless suits in the future.” In his order granting sanctions, Tuchi delivered strong punches to the arguments that Lake, Finchem and their attorneys put forth in what he deemed a “frivolous complaint.” While the plaintiffs sought “massive, perhaps unprecedented federal judicial intervention” to change Arizona’s election system before the recent election, “they never had a factual basis or legal theory that came anywhere close to meeting that burden,” the judge wrote. He added later in the 30-page order that he would “not condone litigants … furthering false narratives that baselessly undermine public trust at a time of increasing disinformation about, and distrust in, the democratic process.” Bill Gates, county Board of Supervisors chair, said in a statement the sanctions were a “win for the rule of law” and that they will serve as a consequence for those who file baseless and meritless lawsuits.
California: In a tentative ruling, Judge James Chalfant granted supporters of the recall of Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón greater access to some voter records as part of their review of signatures on their recall petition. Supporters hope to find enough that were improperly invalidated to reverse the decision by Dean Logan, L.A. County’s Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, to rule their effort failed to qualify for the ballot. Chalfant said he issued the ruling because at the current pace, the recall committee wouldn’t be able to finish its review for another 18 months. “The Committee has the right to timely determine if the Recall Petition merits a recall election. Without a preliminary injunction, the Committee’s review is expected to take until May 2024,” Chalfant wrote. While declining to set specific access requirements, the judge said he wants the two sides to work together to ensure the recall supporters can complete their review by March 31. He did rule that the registrar must provide access to signatures on file of voters whose signatures were invalidated because of a mismatch.
Colorado: Lawful votes are unconstitutionally discarded in Colorado, often because a voter’s signature doesn’t match what’s on file, according to a lawsuit filed in Denver District Court late last week. The signature match requirement is meant to prevent voter fraud, since mail or at-home voting takes place away from a polling site. But, the lawsuit said, fraud is extremely rare, and ballot rejections disproportionately impact diverse communities, disabled people and the youngest and oldest voters. “For the vast majority of Colorado voters who vote by mail this fundamental right is contingent on an arbitrary, deeply flawed signature matching process,” read the lawsuit. “While ostensibly deployed to verify voter identity, signature matching is election integrity theater: it disenfranchises qualified voters by the tens of thousands, all for the appearance — but not the reality — of election integrity.” The lawsuit notes that actual voter fraud is exceedingly rare. A spokesperson for Secretary of State Jena Griswold released a statement: “The Department of State is currently reviewing the lawsuit and will defend Colorado law requiring mail ballot envelopes to be signed. Colorado ensures the constitutional right to cast a ballot, including by giving voters 8 days after an election to fix any signature discrepancy.”
A group of voters has filed an emergency petition with the Colorado Supreme Court over the CD3 automatic recount. The petitions, filed by attorney Gary Fielder on behalf of electors in Mesa, Garfield, Alamosa, Eagle and Pueblo counties, ask the court to determine that Secretary of State Jena Griswold exceeded her rule-making authority and violated election law concerning how pre-recount testing of machines is to take place. The petitioners argue that the logic and accuracy testing of voting devices she ordered to take place for the recount was not the correct method of pre-recount testing. Instead, they said, the law requires a comparison of actual voter-verified paper against a voting machine’s tabulation, which would either validate the machine’s accuracy, or, when there are discrepancies, create the presumption for a recount by hand. Although a recount can be conducted in the same manner as the original election if the comparison between manually counted ballots and the machine’s tabulation is identical, that’s not the case when there are discrepancies, the petitioners argued.
Florida: Circuit Judge Laura Anne Stuzin has tossed out another voter fraud case brought by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ elections police, the third case to fall apart since the governor announced the arrests. Stuzin reached the same conclusion as another Miami judge did in a different voter’s case, saying that statewide prosecutors didn’t have the ability to bring charges against Ronald Lee Miller. Because he was convicted of second-degree murder in 1990, Miller, 58, was ineligible to vote. But after his voter registration application was cleared by the Florida Department of State, Miami-Dade’s supervisor of elections issued him a voter ID card, and he voted in November 2020. Statewide prosecutors said Miller’s alleged crimes happened in multiple jurisdictions because he registered to vote through a third-party voter registration organization, which sent the application to Broward County’s election supervisor, which was then sent to Tallahassee. Stuzin flatly rejected that argument in a brief three-page order, writing that state law governing the statewide prosecutor “is clear on its face and unambiguous.” Miller “never physically entered” Broward or Leon counties and “never mailed or electronically transferred anything” to either of those counties, she ruled.
Georgia: Cobb Superior Court Judge Kellie Hill agreed to approve a consent order to extend the absentee ballot return deadline for Cobb County voters whose applications were received on or before Nov. 26, in response to a lawsuit over alleged delays by the county in mailing out the ballots. Two absentee voters represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia sued the Cobb County Board of Elections after the department allegedly failed to send out over 3,400 absentee ballots on time for the runoff election. It’s the second time the department has been sued over the same issue — after failing to send out more than 1,000 absentee ballots in the November general election. The election board’s attorney, Daniel White, said the lawsuit is “factually incorrect” and that all the absentee ballots were sent according to the legal deadlines. “We disagree that they were untimely mailed. They’ve all been mailed,” White said. “There’s no statute that’s been violated in terms of the deadlines.” Georgia law requires issuance of absentee ballots within three business days of receiving the application during the advanced voting period. But during the runoff, thousands of ballots marked as issued on Nov. 23 still had not been received by voters in early December, according to the lawsuit.
Kansas: The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas, the Campaign Legal Center, Loud Light and Elias Law Group are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse the Kansas Supreme Court decision upholding the state’s newly enacted congressional maps. In a filing last month, the groups asked the high court to consider whether the 14th Amendment prohibits racial discrimination in redistricting when a minority group is not large enough to make up the majority of a district. “If the Kansas Supreme Court’s opinion were to stand it would make it basically impossible to raise an intentional discrimination claim under our equal protection laws,” said Sharon Brett, legal director at the ACLU of Kansas. It’s unclear if the court would take on the case or when they will make that decision.
Mississippi: Not every felony conviction in Mississippi involves people losing their voting rights, but 22 of them do. However, some legal groups say that constitutional provisions in the state must be reviewed and struck down. “Mississippi is keeping a provision of the 1890 constitution in place that everyone agrees was racially discriminatory when it was adopted,” described Deputy Director of Impact Litigation for the Mississippi Center for Justice Paloma Wu. The Mississippi Center for Justice is asking that the U.S. Supreme Court take a look at the case involving Mississippi disenfranchising crimes. Other legal groups have filed similar cases that are also still caught up in court. And two of those groups, including the Southern Poverty Law Center, signed a brief last week encouraging the justices to consider this issue. There has been a simultaneous push for lawmakers to get rid of the ban while it’s pending in the judicial system. “You would like to see us take action to do this,” noted the Director of Political Campaigns for the Southern Poverty Law Center Action Fund, Brandon Jones. “But in the absence of that, we would like to see the courts take this way, put us on the same footing that other states have with a reasonable restoration process.”
Nebraska: A Legislature candidate has sued Secretary of State Bob Evnen to force a hand recount in the race. Russ Barger, a candidate for the District 26 legislative seat, which represents northeast Lincoln, filed the lawsuit on Monday. His opponent, George Dungan, won by 224 votes, which is just over the margin needed to require an automatic recount. In the lawsuit, Barger said he filed a petition for a hand recount to Evnen last Friday but was denied the request. Instead, Evnen said the recount would be done by a vote-counting device on Thursday, according to court documents. Barger then filed the lawsuit, hoping a court would force the state to do a hand recount of the legislative race. Barger’s lawyer, David Begley, has asked the court to make a decision by Dec. 20. “The Secretary of State is required to certify the election results by December 20. His interpretation of the relevant statute renders many parts of the statute meaningless,” Barger said in a press release. “Clarification of the rights of candidates is important for this race and future races. An election contest lawsuit should not be necessary to secure a hand count. But that will be the only possibility for a hand count, if the court adopts the Secretary of State’s interpretation.”
New Hampshire: Michael Drouin, 30, of Merrimack has been indicted on one felony count of interference with election communications related to the April 13, 2021, Hillsborough District 21 special election. The indictment alleges violation of RSA 659:40-a, interference with communications, a Class B felony. The charge alleges that on election day Drouin knowingly blocked the phone of Republican House candidate Bill Boyd, who ultimately won that day, with the intent of interfering with campaign activity. The class B felony carries a penalty range of 3½ to seven years in prison and a fine of up $2,000 and if convicted, Drouin will lose his right to vote.
New Jersey: Mercer County Assignment Judge Robert Lougy has ruled that Trenton must hold runoff elections for three at-large city council seats after none of the candidates reached the 50% + 1 threshold in last month’s election. Lougy has ordered a runoff election for January 24 and ordered the runoffs for the North and South Ward council seats, which had not been part of the lawsuit seeking an at-large runoff, to be held on the same day. Voting in already underway in the North and South Ward contests after election officials began mailing vote-by-mail ballots earlier this week. It’s not immediately clear if those ballots will be counted, although Lougy ordered a new ballot draw and the preparation of ballots that include the at-large seats. Trenton City Clerk Brandon Garcia had certified the results of the November 8 non-partisan municipal election based on numbers provided to him by Mercer County election officials. But on Thursday afternoon, just two hours before a court hearing was set to begin, County Counsel Paul Adezio filed a revised certification showing that the county was able to establish the total number of voters in the at-large race. “Per the clearest statutory command, petitioners are entitled to a runoff,” Lougy wrote in his decision. “The delating of the runoff election affords enough time for election officials that voters across the city have fair and equal access to the right to vote.”
Pennsylvania: Judge James Lillis tossed recount petitions filed by the Berks County Republican Committee. The petitions, which were filed last month on behalf of 94 voters who alleged that voting machines were changing votes cast for Republican candidates to Democrats on the ballot, delayed the certification. The GOP claimed some voters had pressed the button for one candidate and the machine lit up another, forcing them to re-select their pick. The party sought a recount in 30 of the county’s precincts. County officials said it was possible to miss the button, but they were confident nobody’s vote was changed.
Two voters identifying themselves as members of the conservative Lycoming County Patriots organization want the court to order a third-party forensic audit of the November 2020 election results in the county. Richard Houser and Catherine Burns in a suit filed this week in county court claim they have shown the county commissioners over the past 14 months evidence of fraud, irregularities and violations of the Election Code. Their suit names as defendants the county, its three commissioners, board of elections and elections director Forest Lehman. Houser and Burns in their suit seek a court order requiring the Elections Board to report all suspicious activity uncovered by the forensic audit to the district attorney.
Virginia: Prince William County Judge Carroll A. Weimer, Jr. dismissed lawsuits two local Republican election integrity activists brought against Eric Olsen, the county’s director of elections, and the county Electoral Board. The suits urged the court to undo the certification of the county’s Nov. 8 election results, direct that hand recounts be conducted in certain precincts and order that all equipment used in the election be secured and analyzed by a third-party to ensure “full transparency.” Following a nearly 3-hour hearing, Weimer ruled that the lawsuits were without merit and dismissed them “with prejudice,” meaning they can’t be refiled.
Opinions This Week
National Opinions: Vote-by-mail | Election reform | Ballot counting | U.S. Supreme Court, II | Election deniers | Voting Rights Act | Democracy
Arizona: Conspiracy theories, II | Ballot counting
California: San Francisco election official | San Luis Obispo County
Colorado: Faith in elections | Recount
Florida: Election police
Georgia: Runoff system, II | Poll watchers | Student voters | Early voting | Voters
Illinois: Jail voting
Maine: Democracy
Michigan: Democracy
Minnesota: Ranked choice voting
New Hampshire: Secretary of state race, II, III
New Mexico: Election deniers
Ohio: Election legislation
Pennsylvania: Faith-in-elections
Rhode Island: Secretary of state
South Dakota: Secretary of state
Texas: Secretary of state
Virginia: Election integrity unit
Washington: Voting process | Signature verification
Upcoming Events
MEDSL 2022 Post-Election Webinar: On December 14, 2022, we’ll be convening a great line-up of experts to discuss election administration and other happenings during the 2022 midterm election. From 1:30 to 3pm EST, we will be hosting a public webinar all about the 2022 election, featuring our own takes on what happened as well as highlighting other researchers’ work and what they saw. In particular, the webinar will feature a number of the research teams that were awarded grants under our new Evolving Election Administration Landscape project. From what happened online to what happened in polling places, we’ll cover as much as we can. Register today to hold your spot and receive more details about the event! Where: Online When: December 14 1:30pm Eastern.
Election Center Joint Elections Official Liaison Conference: Save the date! More information coming soon! Where: Arlington, Virginia. When: Jan. 11-14, 2023
EAC Technical Guidelines Development Committee Annual Meeting: The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) Technical Guidelines Development Committee (TGDC) will hold its annual meeting tentatively on January 26, 2023. This meeting will be held virtually and live-streamed on the EAC’s YouTube Channel. Registration is not required. When: January 26, 2023. Where: Online.
iGO 2023 Mid-Winter Conference: Check out the iGo website for more information about the tentative agenda. When: Jan. 28-Feb.1, 2023. Where: Glendale, Arizona.
NASS Winter Conference: Attendee registration for this event will open in December 2022 The cost to attend is $500 early/ $600 late (after January 24, 2023) for Secretaries of State, State Government Staff, NASS Corporate Affiliates and Federal Government Staff. The cost for Non-Profit Organizations to attend is $750 per person early/ $850 late (proof of valid non-profit status required). The cost for Corporate Non-Members to attend is $1300 per person early/ $1400 late. Registration for this event will close on Monday, February 6, 2023, or when registration capacity is fulfilled. On-site registration WILL NOT be available for this event. All event attendees are subject to the event anti-harassment policy and conference waiver of liability. There is no virtual option to attend. Press registration for this event will open on January 18, 2023 Further details and instructions will be posted on January 18. There is no cost for the press to attend. Virtual attendance will not be available. Where: Washington, DC. When: Feb. 15-18, 2023.
NASED Winter Conference: Save the date and check back for more details. When: Feb. 15-18. Where: Washington, DC.
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.
Assistant County Clerk-Recorder, Nevada County, California— Under administrative oversight you can be assisting with planning, organizing, directing and leading the activities of the County Clerk-Recorder’s office! The Assistant Clerk-Recorder will provide highly sophisticated staff assistance to the Clerk-Recorder! This management classification position serves at the will of the County Clerk-Recorder, and acts on her behalf in her absence and provides full line and functional management responsibility for the department’s Recorder and Election divisions. This position is distinguished from the County Clerk-Recorder in that the latter is an elected position and has overall responsibility for all functions of the department. Salary range: $111,810 – $136,500. 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.
Board of Elections Training Specialist, Wake County, North Carolina— Are you looking to get involved in your community? Do you want to make a difference? Are you passionate about learning? If so, get ready to roll up your sleeves and become part of something bigger! The Wake County Board of Elections is currently seeking an experienced Instructional Designer/Training Specialist to join our dynamic and driven Training Team. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who thrives in a fast paced, ever changing work environment. They will have a clear understanding of the commonly accepted instructional design models, what it takes to be a behind the scenes designer, have a strong visual sense and excellent project management skills. What will you do as a Board of Elections Training Specialist? Develop training materials, including classroom presentations, manuals, workbooks, training videos and online training modules to facilitate comprehensive training for Early Voting and Election Day Officials Review, evaluate and modify existing and proposed programs and recommend changes Create schedules, design layouts for training facilities and adjusts room layouts as necessary between in-person classes. Train and manage instructors and assistants for in-person training classes. Serve as instructor for some online webinars and in-person classes. Collaborate with team members to gain knowledge of work processes, identify training needs and establish plans to address the needs through training solutions. Identify innovative training tools and methods to enhance the training program. Monitor and assess election law changes and incorporate the changes into polling place procedures. Develop and design election forms, precinct official website, newsletters, assessments and other communications. Develop high level design documents, storyboards, audio narration scripts, status reporting, QA and testing plans. Assists with Early Voting site setups and call center support. Assists with Election Day call center support and post-election processes. Portfolios will be required by all applicants who are selected to move forward in the recruitment process. 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. 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.
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 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 (Democrat), Fulton County, Ohio— The Fulton County Board of Elections is accepting applications for the position of Democratic Deputy Director. Applicants must be affiliated with the Democratic Party. Must be a Fulton County resident/elector (voter) within 30 days of employment. Will be responsible for preparing and conducting any and all elections held in the county. Administrative and interpersonal skills in dealing with staff, voters, elected officials, candidates and media are critical. This is a full-time position is for 35 hours a week year-round with extended hours required during the period before each election. Interested candidates must agree to a criminal background check, drug screen and submit a complete application package to the Fulton County Board of Elections no later than December 12 by 4:00pm. 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.
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 Review Program Lead, 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 county election review program; Travels extensively throughout state to conduct reviews of county elections departments. Application: For a 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 Specialist, Stanly County, North Carolina— This position provides customer service to the Stanly County residence by telephone and in person; and issue forms, applications and inform customers of online resources. Duties include responding to and resolving customer inquiries through research; processing voter registration applications, cancellations and absentee ballot requests; keying updates provided on federal and state forms; assisting staff in daily office procedures and providing accurate information to the public; processing, sorting and date stamping mail; and collaborating with team members to gain knowledge of work processes. Work may include other duties and responsibilities assigned. Deadline: Dec. 27. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Elections Specialist (Vietnamese), King County, Washington–This is an amazing opportunity to be engaged in the election process! This benefits-eligible Term-Limited Temporary (TLT) position is anticipated to last up to one and a half years. A Special Duty Assignment may be considered for King County Career Service employees who have passed their initial probationary period. The Department of Elections – is searching for energetic and resourceful professionals who like to “get stuff done”. The Administrative Specialist II positions in the Voter Services Department combines an exciting, fast-paced environment with the opportunity to cultivate talents and apply a variety of skills. The ideal candidate will have a desire to help ensure the democratic process through public service. They will thrive in an innovative environment and will not hesitate to roll up both sleeves, work hard, have fun, and get the job done. King County Elections (KCE) manages voter registrations and elections for more than 1.4 million voters in King County, the largest vote-by-mail county in the United States. KCE’s mission is to conduct accessible, secure, and accurate elections. As a leader in providing inclusive elections, KCE is focused on three key priorities – (1) actively identifying and working to remove barriers to voting at both the individual and community level, (2) strengthening relationships with community and governmental partners, and (3) creating a culture of professional growth and development, openness and inclusion. Salary: $25.09 – $31.81 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Elections Specialist, Oregon Secretary of State’s Office— n this role, you will serve as the front-facing customer service agent for the Elections Division. You will also provide administrative support for Division management and programs. This is accomplished in part by, but not limited to: Monitoring and managing the division’s public facing email boxes; Assisting voters via phone, email, and in-person; Processing the division’s incoming and outgoing mail; Resolving routine problems or complaints and escalating complicated issues to other staff members; Performing an initial review of documents filed with the division; Providing data entry assistance to division staff; Assisting division staff with mailings; Coordinating travel and scheduling meetings for the division; Providing support for records management; Fulfilling voter registration supply orders. Salary: $3,535 – $5,361/per month. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Elections Supervisor, Pierce County, Washington— The Pierce County Auditor’s Office is responsible for elections, licensing services, and public records. This position supervises an award-winning division in the second largest county in Washington State. There is plenty of activity between elections and experienced staff to accomplish division goals. The Auditor’s Office promotes innovation and process improvement. The Auditor’s Office Elections Division maintains voter registration rolls, conducts federal, state and local elections, verifies petition signatures, publishes a local Voters’ Pamphlet, and maintains precinct lines after redistricting. Pierce County has over 550,000 registered voters and conducts four elections each year. The Elections Division serves 114 jurisdictions (boundary lines, voter assignment, elections) and files candidates for over 500 elected offices. As the Elections Supervisor, you will have the ability to immediately contribute to the division’s success. You will be guided through the process with coaching-focused managerial support, a team that wants you to be successful in your role, and an organizational culture that encourages continuous learning and professional development. You will be influential across the state, networking with other counties, sitting on advisory committees, and collaborating with the Elections Manager on policy decisions. Salary: $36.44 – $46.33 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Executive Director, Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center— The primary responsibilities of this position are to set and reinforce the mission and vision of the organization, define its strategic direction and implement strategic plans for the organization’s development, make executive decisions that drive organizational growth, and build and manage relationships including stakeholders and potential donors. The Executive Director works with the Board to set goals for the organization, governs over organizational activities and relationships, guides the organization’s culture, and directs communication to support the mission of the organization. The ideal candidate will define the organization’s priorities and direction, oversee staff recruitment and retention, and work systematically to meet organizational goals. He or she should be a self-starter with the ability to work independently and with a team. This is a full-time remote position with in-person meetings and travel as needed. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Executive Director, National Vote at Home Institute — The Vote at Home Executive Director shall be responsible for managing all aspects of the organizations’ operations. These major responsibilities include the following: Strategy. Recommending, implementing, and effectively executing all VAH policies and key strategies and programs as approved by one or both boards. Budget. Fundraising and budget administration, to ensure Vote at Home’s financial sustainability and the effective and efficient expenditure of available funds. Management. The hiring, supervision, and performance management of all staff, contractors, and contracts to promote diversity and equity, ensure a collaborative and productive workplace, and comply fully with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Partnerships. The creation of collaborative partnership relationships with other key organizations and individuals to help promote and amplify VAH’s work. Communication. The effective communication, in a wide variety of public and private forums, of Vote at Home’s vision, mission, key strategies, and core messages. Salary: $120K-$160K. 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.
Language Access Coordinator (Russian and Somali), King County Elections — The Department of Elections is searching for energetic and resourceful professionals who like to “get stuff done”. The Language Access and Outreach Coordinator position in the Elections Department combines an exciting, fast paced environment with the opportunity to cultivate talents and apply a variety of skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in an innovative, fast-paced environment and will not hesitate to roll up both sleeves, work hard, have fun, and get the job done. The Language Services and Community Engagement Program is recruiting Language Access and Outreach Coordinators who will support the program for the Russian and Somali languages. This position provides bilingual assistance, translation, and community outreach support. These individuals must be able to read, write, understand, and speak Russian or Somali at the language proficiency testing level used by the Department. In addition, as part of the community engagement program, they will participate in voter registration and voter education activities with community partners and provide support to out Voter Education Fund partners. Individuals in this position will provide language access assistance to our communications team and administrative support to other election work groups as needed. Salary: $33.63 – $42.62 Hourly. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Legislative Analyst, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under the direction of the General Counsel, assists in the development and advancement of legislative strategy and response; provides legal research and analysis related to legislation, election administration, policy, and operational initiatives. Effectuating Administrative Rules with JCAR. Assists with monitoring State and Federal legislation and implementation of a legislative strategy. Provides legal analysis and summaries of proposed and passed legislation, with an emphasis on the potential impact on election administration and/or agency operations or policies; assists with developing agency response to proposed and passed legislation; communicates agency response and/or position to internal and external stakeholders, as directed. Assists and coordinates with the Board’s subject matter experts in researching mandates, drafting, and finalizing briefing memos, technical reports, and presentations in the development of policy, operational, and programmatic initiatives. Develops new approaches to analyzing data and presenting analyses. Maintains a central repository for legislative, policy, and Administrative Rules to capture historical knowledge. Coordinates and facilitates meetings to assist in internal and external stakeholder education and engagement. Works with stakeholders to gather knowledge and the development of best practices. Salary: $4,958 – $9,558. Deadline: December 15. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Legislative Liaison, Illinois State Board of Elections— Subject to administrative approval, acts as liaison between SBE and legislative leaders in regards to legislative affairs directly affecting budget, statutory requirement changes and legislative mandates; coordinates activities of professional staff responsible for implementing and executing division policies and procedures; plans new program objectives and reviews, evaluates and modifies existing programs in conjunction with Division Directors and Executive Director. Directs the preparation and implementation and coordinates all staff activity with respect to election and campaign finance legislation; establishes procedures for review and evaluation of all election and campaign finance legislation whether initiated by the Board, a legislator or other governmental entity; participates in the legislative process through direct contact and consultation with legislators regarding the merits or demerits of proposed legislation affecting the administration of election and campaign finance laws; testifies as Board representative in Senate and House Elections Committees; consults with and assists committee staff in analysis of election and campaign finance bills and amendments thereto. Directs staff activity in research and compilation of data to be utilized as a basis for Board initiated legislation or proposed rules and regulations; directs the preparation of factual, conceptual and statistical staff reports recommending Board initiated election and campaign finance legislation and assessing the administrative and economic impact of such legislation if enacted; directs and presents an annual legislative program to the Executive Director and the Board for consideration and approval; consults with the coordinates Board program with the Election laws Commission; drafts Board initiated legislative proposals in bill form for submission to legislative reference bureau to be prepared for introduction; monitors and tracks the progress of all election related legislation and amendments of the Governor with respect to the merits and demerits of election and campaign finance legislation passed by the General Assembly. Assists in preparation of the annual budget and initiates and promotes Board appropriation bill in the General Assembly; directs the collection and evaluation of proposals for election and campaign legislation from other division heads and their staff. Salary: $5,303.00 – $12,374. Deadline: December 31. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.
Policy Analyst, National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) — This is an entry-level policy position with NCSL’s close-knit elections and redistricting team. NCSL is known for its role as the nation’s keeper of nonpartisan, accurate information about election administration, redistricting, campaign finance and ancillary topics. The successful candidate will work on election administration topics relevant to state legislators and legislative staff and will contribute to a range of projects, including webpages, databases, briefs and presentations. A policy analyst operates under the close supervision of others and has no supervisory responsibilities. Tasks likely to include tracking legislation in databases, answering research requests from legislators or legislative staff, contributing research in support of projects led by others and assisting with meeting planning. Salary: $4,014/mo. 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.
Senior Graphic Designer, King County, Washington— This is an amazing opportunity to be engaged in the election process! The Department of Elections is searching for an energetic and resourceful professional who likes to get stuff done. The Senior Graphic Designer in the Elections Department combines an exciting environment with the opportunity to cultivate talents and apply a variety of skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in an innovative, fast-paced environment and will not hesitate to roll up both sleeves, work hard, have fun, and get the job done. The Senior Graphic Designer will lead the design and production of a wide variety of election materials, including the voters’ pamphlet, social media and advertising content, infographics, educational brochures, and more. This position blends laying out straightforward and easy-to-understand government documents and publications, with opportunities to inject fun, creativity, and innovation into voter education materials and all things elections. This position reports to the Communications Lead. The Senior Graphic Designer will work with members of every workgroup in the department to support election operations and provide reliable and easy-to-understand information to voters. This position will also work closely with the department’s Language Services & Community Outreach team to produce materials in Chinese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Somali, and Vietnamese. The ideal candidate for this position will be creative, detail-oriented, experienced in designing engaging visuals to break down complex information, and ready to collaborate with a team of election administrators, community outreach specialists, and communications professionals. Salary: $71,614.40 – $90,792.00 Annually. Deadline: December 12. 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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