Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, National Association of Secretaries of State Discuss Preparation for November Election

PHOENIX, August 15, 2024 (Newswire.com) - The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy has collaborated with the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) to present an informative virtual discussion on the general election on Nov. 5, 2024. Watch the “How are Secretaries of State Preparing for the November Election?” webcast available now on the Institute’s website, YouTube channel and your favorite podcast platform.

As the Institute’s founder Justice Sandra Day O’Connor said, "Our democracy works best when it is open, accessible, and transparent to all citizens.”

NASS President Minnesota Secretary Steve Simon, President-elect Mississippi Secretary Michael Watson, and Executive Director Leslie Reynolds joined to discuss important bipartisan aspects of election administration, including election security, voter registration, recruitment of poll workers, and evolving technology.

Since 2020's national spotlight on elections, NASS members have worked diligently to safeguard timely, accurate, and trusted voting information shared with the public. #TrustedInfo2024 is the NASS effort to help voters find election information. 

“Don’t just trust what is in your social media feed or what a particular candidate says,” Secretary Simon said. “Seek out trusted sources of information.”

Many states have also addressed this issue uniquely through collaboration with their legislatures on new laws at the state level. To help access this unique information, NASS created CanIVote.org, which leads voters directly to their state’s election officials for state laws, deadlines, and general election information.

Technology continues to evolve and as artificial intelligence (AI) technology becomes more accessible, election officials are addressing concerns to help ensure correct information is available. Several states are taking steps to create laws protecting voters from erroneous election information.

Another critical aspect of preparation for the general election is recruiting poll workers who play an essential role in America’s elections. “Nationwide, we are seeing a greater emphasis on recruiting the next generation of poll workers and ensuring that they are trained and ready to serve,” Executive Director Reynolds said. “Having and continuing to expand the crop of poll workers is very important.”

Understandably, the aspect of election administration that garners the most attention is the results. The panelists noted official, certified results take time, and what Americans see on election night is not necessarily final.

“Election night is unofficial; when you see these calls made on election night, that is the media,” Secretary Watson said. “That is not your election official. I think it is really important that the public understand that.”

Each state has its own ballot rules, voting windows, and tabulation methods. Every election official's primary focus is accuracy to ensure every eligible vote counts. Contact your state and local election officials for up-to-date information if you have questions about your state’s laws, procedures or rules. 

To further help you prepare for the November Election, the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute has created the Citizen’s Guide to the General Election. This guide provides state-level information on election deadlines, voter registration, which races are on the ballot, and more. You can find this guide and more election information at oconnorinstitute.org/elections.

About Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy

Founded in 2009 by retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the O’Connor Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan 501(c)(3), continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American democracy through multigenerational civil discourse, civic engagement, and civics education. Visit OConnorInstitute.org to learn more.

About National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS)

Founded in 1904, National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) is the oldest, nonpartisan professional organization of public officials in the U.S. Membership is open to the 50 states and all U.S. territories. NASS serves as a medium for the exchange of information between states and fosters cooperation in the development of public policy. For more information, visit NASS.org.

Source: Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy