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As we move into the final countdown to 2024, we’ve got a few temporary changes to our schedule.

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December 25 & 26 — The Daily News will not publish.

December 27-29 — The Daily News will post by 10 am all this week.

December 28 — There will be NO electionlineWeekly this week.

January 1, 2024 — The Daily News will not publish.

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Election News This Week

Following-up On The News: There was follow-up on several elections-related fronts this week. In Hinds County, Mississippi elections commissioners said this week that their mishaps caused several polling locations in Hinds County to run out of ballots. They admitted to sharing the wrong voter data with the company they contracted to print ballots, which directly led to the ballot shortages.  “Complete human error. I hate that the citizens of Hinds County had to experience that,” said Commissioner RaToya Gilmer McGee. In Cascade County, Montana, the county commission is still figuring out how to deal with the county’s elections department after it stripped those duties from the county clerk & recorder. While the commission was hoping to work with Clerk and Recorder, Sandra Merchant to create the job descriptions, she was “called away for a family obligation,” and unable to attend a meeting so the search has been tabled until a meeting on Dec. 21. In Minnehaha County, South Dakota controversy continues to swirl around the county’s Auditor Leah Anderson who has been critical of the South Dakota Secretary of State’s office and said she’s looking to “restore trust in our elections” in a response to criticism from state Democrats about Anderson’s recent comments on the county’s election systems. At a county commission meeting this week, a “heated exchange” erupted over Anderson’s salary and the county’s election systems operations. Commissioner Joe Kippley proposed freezing Anderson’s salary. He said Anderson seems to have had two big items on her agenda since taking leadership of the office earlier this year,  her salary and election conspiracy theories which have tied into her job performance, he said. Kippley he said, there were “two strikes” against her in the past month that were “very disappointing to me, very alarming.” In Cache County, Utah the cities of Logan and Hyrum finalized their 2023 elections recounts this week, with no changes to November’s results. The new tally comes as three members of the Cache County clerk’s office remain on administrative leave due to an elections-related investigation. Despite the seemingly successful recounts, the elections have been overshadowed by a county investigation into the clerk’s office. Three members of the office, including county clerk David Benson, were placed on administrative leave last week due to an investigation regarding elections. A spokesperson for the Utah lieutenant governor’s office said members of the office were on hand to assist the county during the recounts last week, but declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.

Vote the Spectrum: Vote the Spectrum is an effort focused on registering 10,000 Arizonans with autism, intellectual or developmental disabilities and those who support them. Vote the Spectrum is the brainchild of Denise Resnik, an idea driven by her lifelong commitment to autism issues and hatched after she attended the Austin SxSW Conference & Festival and, later, the Aspen Ideas Health Festival last summer.” Individuals with autism and disabilities and members of their supportive community have the power to shift the outcome of elections and influence matters of importance to them and us all,” said Resnik. She pointed to the narrow margins in recent elections, and the fact that voters with disabilities vote at a lower rate than others. While Resnik’s adult son is not eligible to vote because he is under full legal guardianship many people with autism can cast a ballot, and Resnik said Vote The Spectrum intends to get them registered and informed for the upcoming elections. The campaign organizers developed a tool kit to educate disabled people and their caregivers, family members and others about access to the vote. They persuaded Secretary of State Adrian Fontes to create a specific web address to use for voter registration. The form requires people to sign an affidavit, under penalty of perjury, that they have not been adjudicated incapacitated and are therefore ineligible to vote. That’s the standard practice for checking on a voter’s qualifications, said Sierra Ciaramella, spokeswoman for the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office.

Early to Bed: Since 1936, a handful of small New Hampshire towns have been famous for opening polling places at midnight on Election Day and allowing residents to become the very first in the state (and typically country) to cast ballots in the presidential elections. This year however, Millsfield has opted out for 2024. Shawn Cote, Millsfield town selectman. residents decided to forgo the midnight vote, due in part to an aging population.  “It’s hard on them to do it, and there’s going to be more absentee votes than actual people there counting the votes,” Cote said. Millsfield residents made the decision to skip midnight voting at a town meeting in March. “It was going to be three of us showing up to count absentee ballots and maybe the three of us vote,” Cote said. Representatives for Dixville Notch have confirmed they will be hosting a midnight vote. The New Hampshire Secretary of State’s office said they anticipate Hart’s Location will also continue their midnight voting tradition in January. Representatives from that community did not respond to NHPR’s requests to speak before this story was published.

Personnel News: Douglas Kellner has been replaced as the co-chair of the New York State Board of Elections. Orange County, Florida Supervisor of Elections Bill Cowles announced his retirement. David Stafford is resigning as the Escambia County, Florida supervisor of elections to take a position with CISA.  Virginia Kase Solomon is the new president of Common Cause. Nicholas Jacobs is leaving the D.C. Board of Elections. Donald “Deak” Kersey has been appointed chief deputy and chief of staff in the West Virginia secretary of state’s office. He replaces Chuck Flannery. Barb Bailey is retiring from the Danville, Illinois election commission after 40 years. McDonald County, Missouri Clerk Kimberly Bell has announced her candidacy for secretary of state. Santa Monica, California City Clerk Denise Anderson-Warren is retiring. Amie Veater is the new White County, Georgia supervisor of elections. Shoshone County, Idaho Clerk Tamie Lewis-Eberhard is retiring after the first of the year. Officials in Gilchrist County, Florida have renamed a local street after former Supervisor of Elections Susan Bryant. Bloomington Mayor John Fernandez has been appointed to serve on the Monroe County, Indiana board of elections. Steve Carr has been sworn in as the newest member of the Perry County, Ohio board of elections. Laura Cantu has been appointed assistant registrar of voters in Kern County, California. After nearly 16 years of service, Jim Buckner has not been reappointed to the Walker County, Tennessee board of elections. Heider Garcia was officially sworn in as the new Dallas County, Texas elections administrator. Bridgette Escobedo is the new Williamson County, Texas elections administrator. Mary Retherford, director of elections for Madison County, Indiana was recently presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indiana Election Division for her 28 years as director and 45 years in the clerk’s office.

New Research and Reports

Recounts: A new FairVote report finds that election recounts rarely change the outcome of a race. Margins must be exceptionally close for a change in outcome to be plausible.

In the 6,929 statewide general elections from 2000 through 2023, there were 36 completed statewide recounts. Only three of those 36 recounts changed the outcome of the race. In all three, the original margin of victory was less than 0.06%.

“In over 6,900 elections over the last 23 years, a recount has changed the outcome exactly three times – and the margin was less than 0.06% each of those three times,”  said Deb Otis, FairVote’s Director of Research and Policy and author of the report. “States should have a process in place for recounts to ensure voter trust and confidence in the event of extremely close outcomes. But as we head into a high-stakes and high-profile election year, we need to acknowledge that calling for recounts when a change in outcome is completely implausible only damages voter trust and confidence.”

The report recommends that states automatically conduct statewide recounts up to a 0.1% margin as a best practice.

It also notes the troubling recent trend of recounts well outside the range where they could be considered consequential — including in last year’s Nevada Republican gubernatorial primary (11-point margin) and Colorado Republican Secretary of State primary (14-point margin), and for Kansas’s “No Constitutional Right to Abortion” ballot measure (18-point margin).

Legislative Updates

Anchorage, Alaska: In a quick vote with very little discussion, the Anchorage Assembly voted 11-1 to make changes to the municipal code, making the creation of a fraudulent public record a Class A misdemeanor. The ordinance was also postponed from the previous Assembly meeting because of concerns about certain language in it. But this week the legislative counsel and municipal attorney agreed the language in it is strong and specific enough to where a person could not be charged for doing something accidentally; intent would have to be proven. This all goes back to October when the Anchorage ombudsman concluded the city’s information technology director created an unofficial IT policy, and then leaked that policy to a campaign activist to challenge the results of last April’s election. The Alaska Court System states a person convicted of a Class A misdemeanor could be sent to jail for as long as a year, and/or have to pay up to $25,000 in fines. The approved ordinance considers interference to include destroying, suppressing, concealing, removing or impairing the legibility or availability of a public record that omits or prevents the making of an accurate, public record. The Assembly also approved proposed amendments to the election observer’s handbook.

Massachusetts: The House passed legislation that would require all employers to give their workers time off to vote in state and local elections. The bill cleared the chamber with no debate, no roll call vote and just a handful of the chamber’s 159 lawmakers present for an information session.  Without discussion, lawmakers passed the bill (H 4217) during an informal session, about 90 minutes after the House Ways and Means Committee released it. Employees who don’t have enough time to vote at the polls outside of their working hours can request time off and give their bosses three business days’ notice, according to the bill. Employers cannot force employees to vote by mail or during early voting under the legislation, which is based off a Rep. John Lawn proposal. The bill also gives the attorney general enforcement authority. “The legislation that was advanced by the House today will help to guarantee that every Massachusetts voter has time to vote on Election Day, regardless of the constraints of their job, a critical step towards ensuring that every eligible voter has the chance to make their voice heard at the ballot box,” Speaker Ron Mariano said in a statement. The Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development favorably reported a version of the bill last session, but the House Ways and Means Committee took no action on it.  Existing state law allows workers in only specific industries — including “in any manufacturing, mechanical or mercantile establishment” — to take time off for voting. But employers have discretion whether they pay their workers or not.

Ohio: A bipartisan pair of Ohio senators want to shield election officials’ addresses from public records requests. Sens. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, and Bill DeMora, D-Columbus, would extend a protection already provided to police and court officials to Ohio election workers. The proposal’s changes are very straightforward. An existing public records exemption bars access to information like the residential address or phone number of “designated public service workers.” That exemption extends to their spouses and children as well. The list of such workers is already pretty long. In addition to police, parole, and corrections officers, it includes prosecutors, judges, and other court officials. Firefighters and EMTs are eligible, too. And the same protections even extend to pharmacy board members and psychiatric hospital employees among others. “This bill would simply add our full-time election workers to this list,” DeMora said, going on to note the bill came from a National Conference of State Legislatures meeting. “Election workers are vital to the functioning of our state,” he said. “I think this is the minimum we can do to ensure that their job of (providing) fair and safe elections can continue.” “This is not a red or blue issue — this is a public safety issue,” Gavarone insisted. “The increased political polarization of our country has put our election officials in danger this legislation will give those people the peace of mind they deserve.”

Legal Updates

Federal Litigation: Former President Donald Trump asked the U.S. Supreme Court to steer clear of an unprecedented appeal that could resolve whether he is entitled to immunity from criminal charges over his role in attempting to overturn the 2020 election. The extraordinary appeal was filed this month by special counsel Jack Smith, who in August secured a four-count indictment against the former president and 2024 GOP frontrunner for conspiring to steal the 2020 election. Before a lower court could consider those charges, Trump claimed he was immune from prosecution. “The question stands among the most complex, intricate, and momentous issues that this court will be called on to decide,” Trump’s attorneys told the Supreme Court. Given that, they said, the decision should be resolved in a “cautious, deliberative manner − not at breakneck speed.” According to USAToday, if the Supreme Court agrees to take the case now, the decision would have enormous consequences for Trump’s extensive legal woes. The question is one of several pending before the nation’s top court that is thrusting the federal judiciary into the uncomfortable position of deciding questions that could determine Trump’s viability for a second term.

Arizona: Lawyers for Kari Lake told Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Jay Adelman that the defamation suit against her by Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer should be thrown out because the failed Republican candidate for governor believes her statements about injected ballots and sabotaged voting machines in the 2022 election she lost are true. Jennifer Wright said that Richer, in pursuing his claim, has to prove Lake acted with “actual malice,” meaning that she knew or should have known that her statements were false. “But not only does Kari Lake believe what she said is true, she will testify as such and will defend accordingly,” she told the judge. “But not only does Kari Lake believe what she said is true, she will testify as such and will defend accordingly,” she told. Jessica Banks, an Arizona State University law student who also is on Lake’s team, says her client is protected by the state’s anti-SLAPP law.

Closing arguments were heard this week in a federal voting rights trial that challenged two Arizona laws aimed at reducing the number of non-U.S. citizens voting in Arizona elections. Despite widespread claims of mass voter fraud pushed by Kari Lake and other Arizona politicians, only two cases exist in Arizona in which a non-citizen is accused of voting, according to court records. Neither case has resulted in a conviction and both are under seal. The attorney general has made only 38 prosecutions involving election fraud since 2008, none of which involve non-citizens. State attorney Josh Whitaker agreed that “evidence of non-citizens voting in America is very rare,” but said that doesn’t negate the need to increase voter confidence — something the two laws in question are purported to do. The laws, House Bill 2492 and House Bill 2243, which passed in 2022 but are blocked pending a verdict in the case, would require already registered voters to show proof of citizenship to remain registered to vote in presidential elections or vote in any federal election by mail, and require county recorders to terminate registration of anyone who hasn’t provided the necessary documents. The laws also call for an investigation of anyone whom a county recorder “has reason to believe” is not a citizen.  Nearly a dozen voting advocacy groups, backed by the U.S. government and the Democratic National Committee, brought multiple lawsuits in response to the laws before they were consolidated in this case. The collective plaintiffs argue the laws will unnecessarily burden those who are already eligible to vote but don’t have access to the required documents: a birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, tribal identification number or a naturalization number. That group is disproportionately made up of Latino voters and voters born outside of the U.S. The defendants, including the state of Arizona, all 15 county recorders and the Republican National Committee, argue that the requirements will only improve election integrity and voter confidence. U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton said back in she expects she’ll reach a verdict by March. Until then, neither law will take effect.

Amy Martin, a Florida-based lawyer, has filed complaints against more than a dozen judges who presided over cases involving the 2020 and 2022 elections. In Martin’s complaints to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, she says those same judges presided over cases involving election years where they were also on the ballot. However, none of those judges had their own elections challenged. Nor did the litigants in any case at hand raise the issue. Judges are assigned cases at random by a computer algorithm. The commission’s executive director couldn’t recall an instance where a judge was found to have violated rules by not disqualifying themselves.

Colorado: Richard Patton, 32,was accused of tampering with a voting machine at the Pueblo County election office shortly before polls closed during the June 28, 2022, primary. He was arrested Nov. 3 of last year and charged with tampering with voting equipment and computer crime, but his case is now slated to be dismissed in Pueblo District Court. His case was the first in the state to be charged under a law the Colorado Legislature passed in 2022 that strengthened election security and heightened criminal penalties for tampering with election equipment. Judge William Alexander ordered a mental health evaluation of Patton’s competency to stand trial in November 2022, upon request from Patton’s public defender. Patton was found incompetent to stand trial and Alexander ordered Patton to undergo outpatient mental health treatment to restore his competency in early January. Court minutes from a hearing on Dec. 15 show that Patton’s case is being dismissed because the court found his competency is “not restorable in the foreseeable future.” Tenth Judicial District Attorney Jeff Chostner confirmed with the Chieftain that the judge’s latest ruling pertains to Patton’s mental competency. “Our office takes election tampering very seriously and accordingly charged Mr. Patton with this offense under the relevant Colorado statute,” Chostner told the Chieftain in an email.

Connecticut: Federal prosecutors have decided not to appeal a ruling by a federal judge dismissing the major charge against a former city councilman accused of absentee ballot fraud. U.S. Attorney Vanessa Robert Avery on Tuesday filed notice with the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals that she is withdrawing her appeal of an earlier ruling by U.S. District Judge Victor Bolden. That ruling dismissed the first count of the indictment against Michael DeFilippo charging DeFilippo with engaging in a conspiracy against constitutional rights by interfering with qualified voters’ right to vote and have their undiluted votes counted in his election to the Bridgeport City Council. The appeal had put a halt to DeFilippo’s trial which had been scheduled to begin before a jury on Sept. 18. The U.S. Attorney’s Office declined comment on its decision to withdraw its appeal.

Georgia: A jury awarded $148 million in damages to two former Georgia election workers who sued Rudy Giuliani for defamation over lies he spread about them in 2020 that upended their lives with racist threats and harassment.  The damages verdict follows emotional testimony from Wandrea “Shaye” Moss and her mother, Ruby Freeman, who tearfully described becoming the target of a false conspiracy theory pushed by Giuliani and other Republicans as they tried to keep then-President Donald Trump in power after he lost the 2020 election. According to the Associated Press, there was an audible gasp in the courtroom when the jury foreperson read aloud the $75 million award in punitive damages for the women. Moss and Freeman were each awarded another roughly $36 million in other damages. “Money will never solve all my problems,” Freeman told reporters outside Washington’s federal courthouse after the verdict. “I can never move back into the house that I call home. I will always have to be careful about where I go and who I choose to share my name with. I miss my home. I miss my neighbors and I miss my name.” District Judge Beryl Howell ruled this week that Giuliani must immediately pay the sum an eight-person jury awarded last week.

Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss have again sued the former New York City mayor seeking to “permanent bar” him from making additional defamatory comments about them. In a 134-page complaint filed this week, attorneys for the two women wrote that Giuliani “continues to spread the very same lies for which he has already been held liable,” citing comments made last week to ABC News’ Terry Moran outside of court, in which Giuliani insisted that Freeman and Moss were “changing votes.” The two women asked the court to prevent Giuliani from “making or publishing … further statements repeating any and all false claims that plaintiffs engaged in election fraud, illegal activity, or misconduct of any kind during or related to the 2020 presidential election.” In a separate court filing in their initial defamation case, attorneys for Freeman and Moss warned a federal judge that “there is a substantial risk” that Giuliani will attempt to avoid paying the women, and asked the judge to “permit immediate enforcement” of the $148 million judgment for fear that Giuliani could attempt to “find a way to dissipate [his] assets before plaintiffs are able to recover.”

A federal appeals court in Georgia has rejected a bid by former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows to remove his Fulton County election interference case into federal court, affirming a lower court’s decision that left it in state court. In its opinion, the appeals court found that “the events giving rise to this criminal action were not related to Meadows’s official duties.” The decision said that “even if Meadows were an ‘officer,’ his participation in an alleged conspiracy to overturn a presidential election was not related to his official duties.” Meadows was seeking to remove the case based on a law that calls for the removal of criminal proceedings when someone is charged for actions they allegedly took as a federal official acting “under color” of their office.

Kansas: The Kansas Supreme Court reinstated a lawsuit by four voter turnout organizations seeking to invalidate a state law that makes it a felony to impersonate an election official. The state’s top court overturned a 2022 appellate court finding that the organizations didn’t have standing to pursue their challenge of the statute because they don’t engage in deceptive practices and didn’t face a credible threat of prosecution.  This was incorrect, according to the high court, because the organizations’ volunteers are frequently mistaken for election officials when they try to register voters. This is not because they try to impersonate election officials but is the result of “innocent listener mistake,” which is usually quickly cleared up if the people they seek to register ask them. Still, the organizations claim they have had to curtail their activities because they fear they could face prosecution based on such innocent listener mistakes. And the Kansas Supreme Court agreed the statute’s language is too ambiguous to infer that the organizations have nothing to worry about. “The statute simply does not provide clarity that truthful speech which generates an innocent or unreasonable listener mistake is outside of its scope,” the high court wrote. “And this is sufficient to confer pre-enforcement standing.”

Attorney General Kris Kobach issued a nonbinding legal opinion arguing state law required officials engaged in post-election audits to rely on original paper ballots instead of making use of optically scanned images of those ballots. Kobach, who previously served as secretary of state, published the assessment in response to concern expressed by Republican state legislators and election fraud conspiracy theorists. The issue emerged because officials in Kansas counties with substantial populations sought efficiencies by turning to electronically stored copies of ballots when engaged in spot audits. The attorney general said in the opinion that election clerks performing post-election audits weren’t at liberty to substitute printed copies of ballot images. “Reasonable people may disagree on how audits should be conducted, but the Legislature was quite clear in its language,” Kobach said. “The original paper ballots must be used.” Clay Barker, general counsel to Secretary of State Scott Schwab, said optical scans of ballots were generated by a few counties with large populations to speed processing of votes, but a paper version of every Kansas ballot was retained. He has suggested the Legislature consider amending state law to affirm counties had the option of deploying computer technology in support of post-election audits.

Louisiana: The  U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has denied the state’s petition to try to halt a redistricting lawsuit based on an unusual argument that says private individuals don’t have the right to sue over voting rights. Other aspects of the Robinson v. Ardoin lawsuit remain pending in the 5th Circuit, but Friday’s ruling is a win for the Black voters who brought the case in early 2022 after Republican lawmakers adopted a congressional map with just one Black district out of six despite the state having a population that is one-third Black. Louisiana Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin is the lead defendant in the case. He and other state Republican leaders appealed a lower federal court ruling that ordered lawmakers to redraw the districts. The defendants grounded one of their arguments in a recent 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that advocates and court watchers have called radical in the way it circumvents the Voting Rights Act.  The 8th Circuit panel held that only the U.S. attorney general — not private individuals or organizations — can challenge redistricting maps. An overwhelming majority of voting rights lawsuits have come from private organizations such as the NAACP and American Civil Liberties Union. After the state filed that petition, the U.S. Department of Justice joined the case on the side of the Black voters, effectively neutralizing the state’s argument. The Louisiana Legislature has until Jan. 30, 2024, to draw a new congressional map with two majority-Black districts or else go to trial in a federal court that has previously ruled GOP lawmakers likely gerrymandered the districts to dilute the voting rights of Black residents.

Lawrence, Massachusetts: An elected official and another woman have been indicted on voter fraud charges following last month’s municipal election in Lawrence, Massachusetts. The office of Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker said Wednesday that a grand jury had indicted City Councilor-elect Fidelina Santiago and Jennifer Lopez. Each faces the same 16 charges, including four counts each of illegal voting or attempt to vote; conspiracy to vote or attempt to vote illegally; unlawful interference with voters; and obstruction of voting. Santiago won her race in District A on Nov. 7, according to the city’s official election results, receiving 537 votes while her opponent, Vladimir Acevado, received 385. Prosecutors did not immediately share details of the allegations against Santiago and Lopez, but noted that they investigated after a referral from the office of Secretary of State William Galvin regarding “concerning allegations of fraudulent voting associated with the November 2023 local election.”

Minnesota: Anoka County Judge Thomas Lehmann as thrown out a lawsuit that challenged the quicker restoration of voting rights to Minnesotans convicted of felonies. Lehmann’s 11-page order dismissed the case on multiple grounds. It was an attempt to scuttle a new law approved this year and that allowed some previously ineligible voters to cast ballots in the municipal elections. Lehmann ruled that the plaintiffs do not have legal standing to sue, and they failed to prove that lawmakers acted outside their authority. “The major premise of this argument is fundamentally flawed,” the judge wrote in his order. He cited a 2023 Minnesota Supreme Court ruling that deferred to the Legislature to determine when voting rights were renewed. The voters alliance plans to appeal. A lawyer for the group, James Dickey, said it would try to skip one appellate court along the way. “We are disappointed with the Court’s decision, but we intend to appeal as soon as possible and seek accelerated review from the Minnesota Supreme Court,” said UMLC Senior Counsel James Dickey. “We think this is an important issue of constitutional interpretation, and the people of Minnesota deserve to know what their constitution means before the 2024 election.” Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison says he is happy the efforts were rejected.

Nebraska: Chief U.S. District Judge Robert Rossiter Jr. said a federal appeals court decision may have “thrown a wrench in the works” of a proposed settlement of a voting rights lawsuit filed by two Indian tribes and individual tribal members against Thurston County. The Winnebago and Omaha tribes and the individuals last month reached an agreement with the county on a map with redrawn county board of supervisors districts that would give Native Americans a majority of voters in five of the seven districts. All that remained was a judge’s approval. Rossiter was inclined to accept the settlement, but a November ruling by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in which the court said Congress did not give private plaintiffs the ability to sue under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act could affect the proposed settlement. The tribes’ lawsuit and the settlement rely heavily, but not exclusively, on Section 2, Rossiter said. “In light of that groundbreaking ruling and the questions left open by that case, the court would like the parties to weigh in on the continued viability of their joint motion and the proposed consent decree in its current form,” Rossiter wrote in an order filed in U.S. District Court in Omaha. The judge asked both parties to file briefs by Dec. 27, and he would then decide after reviewing them if a hearing is needed.

North Carolina: Voting rights groups sued the North Carolina Board of Elections in federal court this week claiming that the three new election maps drawn by GOP lawmakers in October is a racial gerrymander.  The suit is the third that claims new voting districts violate the Voting Rights Act. According to Courthouse News Service, the most comprehensive lawsuit over the maps so far, the North Carolina NAACP, along with NC Common Cause and eight Black residents say that the General Assembly targeted Black voting precincts to hinder Black voters’ ability to elect candidates of their choice. In the suit, the plaintiffs note the extreme lack of transparency in the drawing of the election maps. When the 2023 North Carolina budget passed, it contained a provision that removed redistricting records from public record, reversing four decades of tradition. In previous years, election maps were publicly drawn on live streams and available for public viewing; the new election maps currently in place were drawn with very little opportunity for public input.  The plaintiffs claim the new congressional, state Senate and House election maps violate the 14th and 15th amendments and Voting Rights Act by diluting the voting power of Black voters, which is consistent with North Carolina’s history of racial gerrymandering. “Discriminatory election laws in North Carolina have largely been and continue to be successful in suppressing Black votes,” the plaintiffs say in the lawsuit. “Statewide, the candidates of choice of Black voters have had less electoral success, especially in the last decade.” They want a three-judge panel to hear the case.

Ohio: In a new federal lawsuit, voting rights groups say that a recently passed Ohio law which makes it a felony for someone other than a postal worker or a close relative to handle someone’s absentee ballot illegally discriminates against disabled people. The ACLU of Ohio and the Ohio League of Women Voters want a federal judge to strike down the absentee ballot restriction, contained in House Bill 458, a sweeping elections law signed by Gov. Mike DeWine in January that made other changes like requiring voters to show a photo ID to vote in person. The lawsuit was filed this week with the Northern District of Ohio, court records show. It said there are disabled voters who lack nearby close relatives as defined by state law — these include parents, siblings, spouses, step-parents, uncles and aunts, while the law excludes cousins and grandchildren — and who also lack access to a mailbox or transportation to get to their polling place. The lawsuit says the requirement violates the Voting Rights Act and makes it a crime for groups like the League of Women Voters to help voters who need assistance to vote. “Ohioans with disabilities often rely on support from their communities to ensure their voices are heard in elections,” Jen Miller, executive director for the League of Women Voters of Ohio, said in a statement. “To make it a crime to help your grandparent or neighbor exercise their right to vote is antithetical to democracy.”

Pennsylvania: Delaware County Common Pleas Judge James P. Bradley has ruled that a Democratic-led county council can’t pick whoever members want to represent the Republicans on the county Board of Elections. Bradley issued an order this week granting a preliminary injunction against Delaware County Council from enforcing any provision from Ordinance 2023.1 that would allow Delaware County Council from rejecting nominees for the minority member of the county Board of Elections. It also prevents council from selecting a member of the member of the minority party they so choose if certain deadlines are not met by the minority party chairman. In fact, Bradley’s order declared Ordinance 2023.1 void and invalid. His order noted that the purpose of the Pennsylvania Election Code is to guarantee minority representation on the county Board of Elections. His order stated that “the current Ordinance impermissibly affords Delaware County Council a veto power over the minority party chair’s nomination to the Board of Elections which unduly expands the powers conferred upon Council by the Election Code.”

Opinions This Week

National Opinion: Defamation suit | Ballot processing | Trusted sources

Arizona: Ballot measure

California: Artificial Intelligence

Colorado: County clerks

Florida: Vote counting | Hillsborough County | Orange County

Illinois: Ranked choice voting

Maine: Voting Rights Act

New York: Voting equipment

North Dakota: Election workers

South Carolina: Ranked choice voting

Texas: Harris County, II

Washington: Misinformation, II

West Virginia: Secretary of state

Wisconsin: Election commissioner

Upcoming Events

Joint Election Officials  Liaison Conference (JELOC): The Election Center will hold the annual JELOC once again in Arlington, Virginia. Among the courses offered in conjunction with the conference will be Renewal Course 37. In addition to Election Center committee meetings, the convening will include briefings from many of the federal agencies that work with state and local elections officials—the U.S. EAC, FVAP, DOJ, CISA, FBI and the Council of State Governments. Additionally there will be briefings from NCSL, NASS, NASED, and NACo. Congressional staff have also been invited to provide remarks.  When: January 10-14, 2024. Where: Arlington, Virginia.

iGO Midwinter Conference: The International Association of Government Officials will hold its Midwinter Conference in Savanah, Georgia. The conference will feature educational sessions, workshops, team building and planning sessions. When: Jan. 22-26, 2024. Where: Savannah, Georgia

NASED Winter Conference: The National Association of State Election Directors will hold its annual winter conference in February 2024. More details to come. When: February 8-10, 2024. Where: Washington, DC.

NASS Winter Conference: The National Association of Secretaries of State will hold its annual winter conference in February 2024. More details to come. When: February 7-10, 2024. Where: Washington, DC.

Election Center Special Workshop: The Election Center will hold its February special workshop in Nashville. The workshop will feature presentations of professional practice papers. Additionally several CERA classes will be held in conjunction with the workshop. When: Feb. 21-25. Where: Nashville, Tennessee.

Job Postings This Week

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

Administrative Specialist (Elections Specialist Lead), King County, Washington— This is an amazing opportunity to be engaged in the election process! This position will be filled as a Term-Limited Temporary position or Special Duty Assignment for current King County employees who have passed their initial probationary period. It is anticipated to last until December 2024. The Department of Elections is searching for an energetic and resourceful professional who likes to get stuff done. The Administrative Specialist III 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. This position will lead processes, projects, and people within the Signature Verification work area of Ballot Processing. This will include leading, coaching, mentoring, and training temporary and regular staff. Leads may also provide assistance and/or participate in long-term cross-training in multiple work areas to meet organizational agile efforts. This is a great opportunity for a person with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Salary: $28.20 – $35.87 Hourly. Deadline: Jan. 8, 2024. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Assistant Elections Administrator, Hood County, Texas— To provide clerical and customer assistance necessary in structuring, organizing and implementing the voter registration process and the county election process. Essential duties and responsibilities include: Assist the Elections Administrator in conducting elections within Hood County, including local, state, and national elections. Supervises and directs the activities of the Elections Department in the absence of the Elections Administrator. Prepare election supplies for use during Early Voting and on Election Day. Assist in the preparation, setup and testing of electronic equipment and software. Assist the Elections Administrator with election reporting. Compile, organize and secure temporary and permanent election records according to the retention schedule set forth by the Texas Election Code and Texas Government Code. Perform a variety of duties during elections including processing individual precinct lists, preparing sites for early voting, verifying voter eligibility, mailing ballots, Federal Post Card applications and mailings, processing requests to vote by mail and maintaining accurate records of all voting transactions. Maintain voter registration database and street index; and review various maps to properly assign districts to street address ranges. Maintain security of elections equipment and records. Communicate with poll workers regarding training, work schedule and polling place procedures. Oversees the disbursement and receiving of election equipment prior to Election Day and on election night respectively. Occasionally attend/present information on behalf of the Elections Administrator, to include Commissioners Court meetings, Poll Worker training sessions and Public Hearings. Provide public assistance regarding election issues/questions. Assist with maintenance of office supply inventory, prepare requisitions as necessary. Must be available to work extended hours and/or weekends when necessary. Help develop and maintain procedural manuals for all duties related to the Election Department. Supervise intake of equipment and supplies on election night.   This includes: verifying seals and locks, checking to make sure all equipment and supplies are returned, directing various central count personnel and any other tasks assigned by the Elections Administrator or Deputy Elections Administrator. Assist the Elections Administrator during Early Voting and Election Day. Communicate changes and problems to Elections Administrator. Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the department. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Central Count Coordinator, Dallas County, Texas— This Dallas County Elections Department (“DCED”) position is located in the Central Counting Station Division. Dallas County utilizes ES&S voting equipment and election management systems. We also utilize VOTEC software to help manage data for this process. Performs first line supervision of clerical support staff assigned to standardized tasks to include hiring, training, coordinating workflow, monitoring performance, and ensuring effective and timely delivery of services. Management Scope: Supervises generally five (5) or more clerical support staff in one or more of the smaller sections of the department. Supervises clerical support staff in performing standardized tasks related to receiving, filing and processing documents, fees and fines, maintaining records, files and reports, and providing excellent customer service. Ensures effective delivery of services by training staff, coordinating, delegating and monitoring assignments, evaluating performance, providing feedback and collecting data for performance measures. Acts as a technical expert, researches and resolves more complex issues, responds to inquiries, audits work processes and reconciles/corrects exceptions. Assists management with employee related issues which may include: serving on an interviewing team, coordinating leave activities, maintaining time and attendance, preparing performance appraisals and making staff recommendations. Stays abreast of changes in applicable laws, policies and procedures, recommends and implements changes to policies and standard operating procedures, and assists management in establishing goals and objectives. Performs other duties as assigned. Salary: $3598-$4491. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Chief Fiscal Officer, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under the general supervision of the Director of Administrative Services formulates, interprets, controls and administers policies regarding all Fiscal Programs. Provides fiscal oversight and monitors to ensure adherence to applicable laws, rules, regulations, contracts and financial reporting guidelines. Serves as spokesperson on matters associated with fiscal programs and operations. Coordinates and supervises the financial and fiscal operations for the Board. In collaboration with the Grants Program Manager, coordinates and oversees the administration of state and federal grants. Recommends and implements changes in accounting policy and procedures. Responsible for the preparations of monthly financial statements; annual GAAP packages; monthly reconciliations; ensuring compliance with statute, policies, and other applicable rules and regulations; and maintaining records of the same for audit purposes. Compiles, analyzes and presents annual Agency budget submissions for operational and non-operational activities of the Board.  Coordinates with Division Directors and Accounting Manager in data gathering, budget preparation and submission to GOMB and legislative appropriation staff.  Evaluates budgetary needs with programmatic and operational initiatives of the Board and makes recommendations to Executive Staff. Monitors and adjusts budgetary resources to facilitate the Board’s needs. Represents the agency at legislative hearings or other meetings regarding budgetary or fiscal matters. Serves as the Agency Purchasing Officer in procurement matters involving the Board.  In conjunction with the Procurement Specialist and Accounting Manager, reviews purchase and procurement requests for reasonableness and budgetary feasibility, monitors contracts and obligations prepared to verify compliance with State procurement rules and mandates, and approves contracts on behalf of the Executive Director and Board. Coordinates and actively engages with the Board, Executive Staff, and Division Directors on guiding and developing the Board’s programmatic and operational initiatives. Establishes and maintains effective relationships with external entities and resources to facilitate the same. 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: $6,250 – $10,334. Deadline: Dec. 28. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Customer Support Manager, Hart InterCivic— The full-time Customer Support Consultant role is an on-site position located in the Austin, Texas Metropolitan Area. The role’s primary responsibility is to support Hart’s commitment to extraordinary service by ensuring customer satisfaction through prompt issue resolution and effective communication. The successful candidate will be responsible for resolving customer questions and issues and will collaborate with related teams to assist with technical issues, provide training, and maintain customer records. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Data Analyst, Protect Democracy— VoteShield, a project of Protect Democracy, seeks highly motivated and civic-minded Data Analysts to join our growing team. VoteShield’s goal is to maintain complete and accurate voter data in order to ensure free and fair elections for all qualified voters. As a member of this world-class analysis and engineering team, you will analyze voter registration data, work with election administrators, and grow your technical skills. Ideal candidates will be critical thinkers with a command of data analysis techniques and the ability to distill findings into clear, accessible reports and presentations. We are seeking people who bring an interest in civic data, commitment to non-partisanship, and passion for defending and strengthening our democracy through free and fair elections. We do not expect that any one candidate will have all of the experiences and requirements listed — our current data analysis team comes from a variety of professional backgrounds, including academia and the public and private sectors. We highly encourage you to apply if the job description gets you excited about the role and the work of Protect Democracy & VoteShield. You may work from any location in the United States, and candidates from diverse backgrounds and from across the political and ideological spectrum are strongly encouraged to apply. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here

Department Technician, Michigan Dept. of State— This position serves as the lead departmental technician in the Bureau of Elections help desk that serves as a help desk customer service representative, providing procedural information about campaign finance, disclosure, notarial acts and election law to candidates, committees, election administrators, notary providers and to the general public. This incumbent will be responsible for tier 1 support and triage for inbound calls and communication to the Bureau of Elections to either resolve or route to the appropriate advanced level support. The incumbent provides additional support for bureau wide project activities and initiatives. Incumbent coordinates the staff that provides coverage for the Bureau of Elections front desk that support in person appointments or customer questions. Incumbent is lead worker and provides process improvements for work processes and call flows. Salary: $50,980 – $68,390. Deadline: Dec. 28. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Deputy Director, Miami County, Ohio— The Miami County Board of Elections is looking to fill the position of Deputy Director. The position of Deputy Director, under the direction of the Director, is responsible for overseeing, directing and managing the Board of Elections staff; conducting fair and impartial elections; managing operational procedures; devising, recommending and adhering to the annual budget; implementing changes required by the Ohio Secretary of State, federal legislation, and Ohio Revised Code, implementing policies of the Board of Elections, and reporting to the Ohio Secretary of State. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Deputy Election Director, Montgomery County, Maryland— he Deputy Election Director (Manager III) is a member of Board of Elections management.  They must have in-depth knowledge of the conduct of elections and Federal and State election laws, and as a senior election team member is expected to enable, promote, and provide high quality service to over 750,000 registered Montgomery County voters. The selected candidate will provide substantive input on upper-level policy issues, and will work closely with Election Director on planning, organizing, implementing, and reviewing all election processes.  Selected candidate will assist Election Director in setting priorities, design of operational plans, making operational decisions; anticipate problems, develop contingency plans, and identify resolutions to complex problems. The Deputy Election Director will be assigned supervisory responsibilities over different aspects of elections program, such as voter registration, mail-in and in-person voting, election workers recruitment and training, elections IT and voting equipment, elections operations, candidate filing, outreach and audits. S/he may coordinate assigned activities across Department’s functional sections. Additionally, they will be responsible for data collection, data tracking, analysis and presentation of relevant data, trends and projections to the Election Director, the Board, and public in the form of written reports and oral presentations.  The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing an overview and assessment of all legislative changes (both proposed and enacted) and lead, advise or coordinate integration of new legislative and programmatic requirements into established process. The Deputy Election Director will support BOE’s procurement and contract processes and will be responsible for recommending and monitoring execution of the Department’s budget.  The Deputy Election Director must possess highly effective communication skills, both written and oral, and s/he will be responsible for establishing and sustaining continuous communication with an array of contacts within the county government, other local boards of elections, and the Maryland State Board of Elections.  The Deputy Election Director will support and coordinate enhancement of the overall BOE performance and quality of customer service. Salary: $86,401-$152,940. Deadline: Jan. 4, 2024. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Director Board of Elections/Voter Registration, Bucks County, Pennsylvania— Are you ready to play a pivotal role in the election processes in Bucks County, the fourth largest county in the State of Pennsylvania? Are you committed to ensuring the efficient and accurate administration of elections while also maintaining the integrity of vital records of 470,992 registered voters? If so, we invite you to consider the role of Director of the Bucks County Board of Elections/Voter Registration. The Board of Elections office is at the heart of our community’s election governance, overseeing critical functions that impact every Bucks County resident. As a member of our team, you will collaborate with a dedicated group of 20 full-time and 40+ seasonal part-time employees, working under the direction of the Board of Elections/Voter Registration Director. Bucks County has an excellent benefits package including medical, vision, dental, and prescription as well as an employer-matched retirement program. Bucks County is a wonderful community to live, work, and play and is uniquely located along the I-95 Corridor. Directs operation of the offices of Board of Elections, Voter Registration, and Voting Machines. This includes planning and conducting elections, voter registration management, and ensuring compliance with election laws and regulations. The Director is responsible for training election staff, overseeing technological security measures to safeguard voting integrity as well as creating an annual budget. Communicates election information to the Board of Elections, County administration, and the public. Addresses any issues or concerns that may arise during the election process. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Director of Purchasing, Chicago Board of Elections— The Director of Purchasing is an administrative position at the Board responsible for managing all duties related to preparation and processing of procurement contracts for the Board. Responsibilities: Implement purchasing policies and recommend procedures for staff; Work with user departments and warehouse to coordinate planning and purchasing strategies, including assisting Divisions with contract management and renewal; Schedule all purchasing activities to ensure timely procurement and delivery of sufficient supplies for effective administration of the Board; Coordinate the preparation of RFQs, RFPs, IFBs and other procurement methods to solicit competitive proposals and bids from qualified vendors; Prepare legal notices for publication as required for purchasing in coordination with the Board’s Director of Public Information, Legal Department and Administration; Analyze and evaluate bid specifications, tests reports and other relevant data; Oversee the evaluation of proposals and bids to determine the most responsive, responsible and qualified bidder; Participate in negotiating contract terms, cost and conditions; Promote and monitor MBE/WBE participation; Prepare purchasing and financial reports as requested by the Executive Director and the Board, including bid award recommendations and providing such reports to the Commissioners during their public Board meetings; Prepare annual and quarterly reports on procurement; Coordinate reports and vouchers for the Board and related agencies; Supervise employees in the Purchasing Department; and Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director. Salary: $100,000 – $105,000. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Election Information & Operations Coordinator, Alexandria, Virginia— The City of Alexandria is looking for an Elections Information & Operations Coordinator to manage the administrative operations and information programs of the Office of Voter Registration & Elections. On the administrative side, the Elections Information & Operations Coordinator is responsible for managing purchasing, accounts payable, human resources, payroll and scheduling for the office. On the public information side, the Elections Information & Operations Coordinator is responsible for maintaining the office website, drafting all press releases, and coordinating all outreach activities. Works under the supervision of the General Registrar. Salary: $48,185.54 – $84,794.32. Deadline: Jan. 14, 2024. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Election Services Representative, Fort Orange Press— The Election Services Representative is an onsite position at our Albany, NY facility. It acts as a liaison between clients and internal Fort Orange Press teams (i.e., Estimating, Sales, Prepress, Production, Shipping, etc.). The primary focus is gathering election details, and artwork from numerous clients across the United States while coordinating all aspects of day-to-day processes to ensure a successful election cycle. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills and thrive in a high-pressure environment. Providing timely solutions for clients’ ever-evolving needs while building/maintaining quality relationships. Identifying new business opportunities within assigned accounts. This role is a brand ambassador to both current and prospective clients and requires an energetic personality, the ability to multitask, manage multiple clients and elections at the same time and serves as the internal client advocate. Salary: $23– $32 per hour.  Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Agency Trainer, City & County of Denver— Our ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of election processes, voting systems, and relevant legal frameworks. Responsibilities include developing and delivering training programs, designing instructional materials, and conducting hands-on sessions to ensure proficiency in election procedures. Additionally, the Elections Agency Trainer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify training needs, implement best practices, and continuously enhance the Election Division’s training curriculum. This role plays a critical part in upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring the efficient and transparent execution of elections in the City and County of Denver. Salary: $59,075 – $97,474. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Compliance Officer, Pima County, Arizona— Are you an experienced professional specializing in elections? The Pima County Elections Department is looking for you! Join our team and bring your expertise to the forefront of our mission. Your background in city, county, state, or federal agencies, coupled with your in-depth knowledge of election processes, will make you an invaluable asset. Be a part of our dedicated team, shaping policies, and ensuring the integrity of our electoral system while making a lasting impact on our community. If you’re ready for a rewarding challenge, apply today! (Work assignments may vary depending on the department’s needs and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor) Independently plans, coordinates, monitors and participates in administrative and operational activities required to maintain compliance with state and federal election regulations; Verifies department director and staff operate within full compliance regarding any and all applicable legal regulations and timelines; Maintains a listing of legally required deadlines for the unit via a cyclical timeline; Manages campaign finance, including correspondence for late filings and violations; ensures candidate filing compliance, including challenges; Ensures federal and state voting equipment compliance; Responds to public records requests; Assures separation of duty compliance required by Pima County; Completes periodic compliance audits and provides findings with recommendations to the Director and Deputy Director; Prepares requisite drafts of new procedures or processes for preclearance by regulatory agencies in compliance with state or federal laws or other regulatory requirements;  Coordinates the compilation and submission of required reports to regulatory agencies; Ensures Department compliance with all poll worker regulations; Determines Department compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with respect to facilities utilized in the elections process; Assists with grant requests; Develops and maintains public feedback tracking systems to capture voter complaints and concerns, allocate them to the appropriate division for resolution and record actions taken to rectify issues identified. Salary: $57,607 – $63,367. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Equipment/Operations Analyst, Jackson County, North Carolina— This position performs intermediate skilled technical and operational support work assisting the Director with planning, directing, coordinating, and supervising the elections process. Duties and Responsibilities: Assists in Implementing changing election laws, coordinating elections, and supervising activities of the office. Oversees set up of One-Stop voting sites and network. Sets up all E-poll books according to polling place. Assists in machine logic and accuracy. Administers Campaign Reporting schedule. Provides requested information such as registration analysis, voting analysis, lists of precinct officials, precinct locations, precinct political committees, and campaign reports to the various candidates, campaign committees, party chairs, news media, and the general public. Provides requested information   regarding the North Carolina Campaign Reporting Act to prospective candidates, candidates, elected officials, media, and the general public, provides and notices of required reports to Candidates. Assists with audits submitted campaign reports, reviews, and verifies records to ensure that required information is provided and correct. Assists with polling sites database. Prepares campaign reports for public viewing. Assists with planning for and coordinating all early voting site, including the set up and close out of all sites.  Assists in training of one-stop workers.  Assists in canvassing the returns of all elections. Explains policies, laws, rules, regulations, and procedures to the public and other inquiring parties. Assists with voter registration verification procedures. Assists in ADA compliance and Campaign zones at polling places. Assists in processing and verifying petitions. Assists in preparing and conducting elections. Assists with state reporting requirements. Interacts with elected officials, candidates, the North Carolina Campaign Reporting Office, the general public, and the media. Performs other related job duties as assigned. Salary: $40,694. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Operation Manager, Pima County, Arizona— Pima County Elections Department is actively seeking a highly qualified candidate with a unique blend of skills and experience to join our team as an Elections Operations Manager. The ideal candidate brings extensive expertise in voting equipment and e-poll books, ensuring the seamless functioning of critical election infrastructure. Your familiarity with online inventory systems will be instrumental in maintaining accurate and efficient inventory management. Additionally, your proven ability to collaborate with political parties and high-ranking officials sets you apart. Your past interactions with these stakeholders have showcased your exceptional communication and diplomacy skills, essential in the realm of elections. If you’re ready to leverage your expertise and contribute to the democratic process, we encourage you to apply. Join us in shaping the future of elections, where your skills and experience will make a significant impact. This classification is in the unclassified service and is exempt from the Pima County Merit System Rules. Duties/Responsibilities: (Work assignments may vary depending on the department’s needs and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor.) Develops program goals, objectives, policies, and procedures, and establishes short- and long-range program performance plans subject to management review; Manages and administers program activities and evaluates program effectiveness and success; Manages the activities of professional staff and evaluates their performance; Develops, negotiates, monitors, and administers contracts, intergovernmental agreements, and/or financial and service agreements for the program managed; Monitors program contract compliance and takes corrective action as required; Performs as a program representative within the community, delivers informational news releases, serves as a program contact person, and participates in community awareness activities; Develops and maintains effective working relationships and coordinates program activities with other County departments, public and private agencies, organizations and groups to promote the program and its goals; Analyzes local, state and federal legislation and ensures program compliance with applicable regulations and policies; Directs organizational and management studies for the purpose of identifying problems and alternative solutions to the problems; Develops, writes and administers the program’s annual budget, prepares program-related financial forecasts, and identifies funding sources to support program activities; Reviews and analyzes routine and special reports detailing the status and/or success of the program, prepares recommendations, and/or initiates corrective action; Evaluates management problems and makes decisions regarding the proper course of action; May make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors regarding program objectives; May direct the preparation and submission of proposals and grant applications; May access or maintain specialized databases containing program-specific information to review information or generate reports. Salary: $57,607 – $63,367. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Elections Supervisor, White County, Georgia— White County is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Elections Supervisor. This position is responsible for supervising county elections and voter registration processes. This position is responsible for supervising county elections and voter registration processes. Directs the preparations for and administration of county elections, primaries, and voter registration functions. Develops the department budget; monitors and controls expenditures to ensure budgetary compliance. Provides staff support for the Board of Elections and Registration; coordinates board member training; provides support for board meetings. Directs the recruitment, selection, training, assignment, and supervision of poll workers; develops and implements the poll worker pay plan. Supervises and assists with all logic and accuracy testing of election equipment in compliance with state law. Reviews all directives, advisories, memoranda, correspondence, and materials issued by the Secretary of State and the State Board of Elections; advises the Board of Elections and Registration and county leadership regarding compliance. Establishes and maintains the department website to meet state requirements for public notices and to provide the public with election information. Performs related duties. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Information Services Technician, Illinois State Board of Elections— Under the supervision of the IT Director, provides hardware and software support to end users and assists with the management of agency server infrastructure. Provides support and training to users on the Microsoft Office suite, internet/intranet applications, and other software; troubleshoots user issues and makes recommendations on how to improve user experience and efficiency. Installs hardware and software for agency end users; assists the IT Technician II with ensuring that appropriate IT resources are provided for agency and other special projects. Resolve end user issues via help desk ticket system, email, or phone call. Assist with Microsoft Office Teams calling and messaging configuration and customization. Assists IT Technician II with duties including, but not limited to; ensuring endpoint operating systems and security software is updated and configured according to agency policy; performing security patches to workstations and applications. Assists IT Technician II with maintenance of Active Directory user accounts; establishes new user accounts, unlocks users, manages permissions, ensures compliance with agency departing employee policy and other user account policies. Develops knowledge and skill in information technology through self-study, consultation with IT staff and formal coursework. Assists IT Technician II with maintenance of documentation, creation of diagrams and workflow and instructions. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Salary: $3,985. – $6,715. Deadline: Dec. 29. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Logistics Coordinator, Dallas County, Texas— This Dallas County Elections Department (“DCED”) position is located on the Logistics team. Successful candidates will have the requisite experience to help manage the people, equipment, software systems, and processes related to election and voting logistics operations and administration. Performs first line supervision of clerical support staff assigned to standardized tasks to include hiring, training, coordinating workflow, monitoring performance, and ensuring effective and timely delivery of services. Supervises generally five (5) or more clerical support staff in one or more of the smaller sections of the department. Supervises clerical support staff in performing standardized tasks related to receiving, filing and processing documents, fees and fines, maintaining records, files and reports, and providing excellent customer service. Ensures effective delivery of services by training staff, coordinating, delegating and monitoring assignments, evaluating performance, providing feedback and collecting data for performance measures. Acts as a technical expert, researches and resolves more complex issues, responds to inquiries, audits work processes and reconciles/corrects exceptions. Assists management with employee related issues which may include: serving on an interviewing team, coordinating leave activities, maintaining time and attendance, preparing performance appraisals and making staff recommendations. Stays abreast of changes in applicable laws, policies and procedures, recommends and implements changes to policies and standard operating procedures, and assists management in establishing goals and objectives. Performs other duties as assigned. Salary: $3598-4491. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Precinct Manager, North Charleston, South Carolina— Are you passionate about democracy and civic engagement? Join us as a Precinct Manager at the Board of Elections and play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth and efficient elections! Welcome to the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, where we are not just an agency, but a dynamic force committed to excellence in democracy. As an award-winning organization, we pride ourselves on our relentless pursuit of improvement to better serve the voters in our community. A major way this is done is through the recruitment and management of those who serve as poll managers. At the heart of our mission is an unyielding dedication to organizing elections with precision, fairness, and strict adherence to the law. Salary: $64,209 – $84,146. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Research Director, CEIR— CEIR seeks a qualified Research Director to join our team. The Research Director will report to the Executive Director and lead CEIR’s research initiatives. These initiatives include, but are not limited to, matters pertaining to voter registration, voter access, election integrity and security, and election policy, generally. The Research Director will set goals aligned with CEIR’s mission and provide the research team with strategic direction on how to reach those goals, all while ensuring the rigor, integrity, and quality of all research activities. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and highly motivated individual who wants to join a growing nonprofit that seeks to make a substantial, positive, nonpartisan impact on elections and American democracy. The Research Director role is a full-time job. CEIR supports hybrid work at its office in Washington, DC. However, we will consider outstanding candidates across the United States that wish to work remotely. CEIR’s office hours are 9am-5pm ET, and the Research Director is expected to be available during that time regardless of location. Salary Range: $110,000-160,000. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Program Officer, Hewlett Foundation— The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, based in Menlo Park, California, seeks a collaborative and outcomes-driven Program Officer for its U.S Democracy Program. As a key member of the U.S. Democracy Program, the Program Officer will engage in grantmaking within the program’s Strategy for Trustworthy Elections; will partner effectively and build and maintain strong relationships with grantees; and will monitor progress and engage in strategic planning for this strategy. The Program Officer will also be deeply engaged in national conversations regarding the future of U.S. democracy and will prioritize building and nurturing networks of practitioners and funders of elections systems. The Program Officer role works closely with a dedicated and dynamic team of colleagues to advance the program’s overall goals while focusing on grantmaking to support a well-administered, fair, accessible, and safe election. They will provide thought leadership around innovative ways that grantmaking and associated grantmaking efforts can build trust in elections. Additionally, they will monitor progress for purposes of ongoing strategy development, and a potential strategy refresh.  Successful candidates will exhibit a passion for the team’s vision of: a durable, inclusive liberal democracy that accounts for cultural and racial difference; and deep collaboration and learning. They will bring a keen understanding of election systems and best practices for their improvement.  The U.S. Democracy Program is nonpartisan and supports organizations across the ideological spectrum, including academic researchers, advocacy groups, think tanks, media platforms, infrastructure providers and civic leadership organizations who share our goals. We partner actively with other foundations in this field. Interested applicants can learn more about the U.S. Democracy Program’s strategy here. Salary: $195K-$223K. Deadline: Jan. 31, 2024. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Systems Integration Specialist, Oregon Secretary of State — Are you looking for an opportunity to use your skills in support of US elections? The Elections Division is looking for a systems integration specialist to work with hardware and software systems critical to election administration. In this role you will leverage technical skills, build relationships with stakeholders, and ensure that key systems are operated in an effective and secure manner, while providing support to Oregon’s 36 county election offices. You’ll be working in an exciting environment filled with opportunities to continue building on Oregon’s track record of innovation and joining a team committed to accuracy, providing effective services, and nonpartisan conduct. Salary: $6,016 – $9,243. Deadline: Jan. 10, 2024. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Temporary Elections Staff Attorney, Public Rights Project— Public Rights Project (PRP) is a public interest legal nonprofit, headquartered in Oakland, with a remote team based throughout the United States. Our mission is to close the gap between the promise of our laws and the lived reality of our most vulnerable communities. Since 2017, we have been working at the intersection of community organizing and state and local government enforcement to build a scalable, equitable community-based enforcement model to protect civil rights and advance economic justice. In the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, PRP is launching its Elections Hub to stand with progressive state and local governments, especially local elections officials, as they fight to protect the voting rights of their residents and secure safe and fair elections. PRP is building a rapid response litigation hub to support up to 200 election officials across 12 or more states. The goal of the hub is to provide training, technical assistance, and legal backup to election administrators to enable them to respond to election threats quickly and effectively. Public Rights Project seeks to hire a Temporary Staff Attorney to join the new Elections Hub. The Temporary Staff Attorney will staff PRP’s in-house efforts to represent and advise state, local, and tribal governments and elected officials in support of election administration and the expansion of voting rights.  Although this position does not incorporate formal supervisory responsibilities, the Temporary Staff Attorney will sometimes lead case teams and may review the work of other attorneys, alongside more independent work or work as a contributor to other case teams. This position reports to the Senior Staff Attorney and 2024 Election Hub Program  Manager. This position will also work closely with the Chief Programs Officer and the Legal Director. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Training Manager, Charleston County, South Carolina— Are you passionate about democracy and coaching people to their fullest potential? Join us as a Training Manager at the Board of Elections and play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth and efficient elections!  Welcome to the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, where we are not just an agency, but a dynamic force committed to excellence in democracy. As an award-winning organization, we pride ourselves on our relentless pursuit of improvement to better serve the voters in our community. A major way this is done is through the training of those who serve as poll managers. At the heart of our mission is an unyielding dedication to organizing elections with precision, fairness, and strict adherence to the law. Responsibilities include: Comprehensive training development, training coordination, community engagement, year-round training program, performance tracking, new hire training, continuous improvement, collaboration with precinct manager.  Salary: $64,209 – $84,146. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

Training Program Coordinator, Charleston County, South Carolina— This position is responsible for the recruiting, coordinating, and training of Election Day poll managers on the policies, procedures, and SC State law regarding the administering of fair, honest, and accurate elections within the polling places on Election Day and during early voting. This position will also train all temporary Early Voting staff. This position will be responsible for developing all instruction manuals and materials. This position reports directly to the Deputy Director of Election Operations. Salary: $53,248 – $69,784. Application: For the complete job listing and to apply, click here.

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