Most people only think about the machines and technical parts that go into elections, but real people are working to make them happen.
While evidence in 2016 showed computer hacking that didn’t impact the election results, it is still a major cause for concern.
Since then the federal government has done more to secure elections and election systems. State and local officials have been able to apply for federal funding to pay for equipment and training in order to protect elections.
It isn’t just the machines that keep the elections going though, it’s the people working the election as well.
According to My Twin Tiers, a survey was taken of local election officials by the Center for Tech and Civic Life. Only 2% of them have said they have everything they need to meet their requirements.
The biggest issue election officials face is the salary they receive. They make as little as $20,000 annually with a national average of $50,000.
Most who choose this line of work are working as a clerk or registrar and looking to give back to the community.
They’re also stretched very thin and cannot afford a permanent office or to hire any staff. Some even report lacking necessary supplies to complete their jobs like printers or desks. Some have been using technology as old as ten years.
Smaller areas have it even worse with no full time election staff.
Their integrity is often questioned as politicians fuel distrust in the public following the results of an election.
One out of six election officials have reported receiving a threat related to their job. Some are made in person while others are online or by phone.
Due to these reasons, one out of every five officials is likely to leave their position before 2024.
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