Events

In the face of unprecedented challenges, counties and local election offices across the nation have taken measures to safeguard our election systems and ran an excellent 2024 general election – in many cases, without the resources required to do so. From foreign interference and cybersecurity attacks, to natural disasters, to staffing and equipment shortages, election offices worked hard to provide secure, trustworthy and accessible voting experiences despite growing challenges that far exceed what any single locality or state can manage alone.

Critical gaps were filled this election cycle. County governments leveraged their own emergency funding to get to the finish line, veterans extended their public service by stepping up as poll workers, and election administrators worked around the clock to ensure timely and accurate certification. But their offices will need more support moving forward to innoculate against future vulnerabilities.

With this election now behind us, this panel discussion brings together national security experts, election administration specialists, veteran leaders, and civic officials from across the country to examine the financial and operational needs of our election infrastructure as we look to the future.

Attendees will gain insights into the ongoing efforts to fortify our election systems, and the immediate needs that local election officials already face as they prepare for the next election.

Speakers Include:
EAC Commissioner Don Palmer
Ohio Association of Election Officials Director Aaron Ockerman
We the Veterans Executive Director Ellen Gustafson
Partnership for Large Elections Jurisdictions Director Carolina Lopez
Authors of “A Republic if You Can Afford It”, Mary Jo McGowan and Martha Kropf
Moderated by CQ Roll Call White House Correspondent & Editor-at-Large John Bennett

Time: 7-9pm