Podcasts about election administration

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we examine sweeping changes in the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division under the Trump administration. Reporter Sam Levine joins host Jessica Levinson to discuss how the division, long tasked with enforcing voting rights and other protections, has seen over 70% of its attorneys depart amid a shift in priorities toward the president's agenda. The episode explores what this means for civil rights enforcement, voter protections, and whether former DOJ lawyers can fill the gap by taking their expertise into private practice.Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:The Role and Function of the DOJ Civil Rights Division and Voting Section: The conversation starts with an explanation of what the Civil Rights Division within the Department of Justice (DOJ) does. It is tasked with enforcing America's civil rights laws—including the Voting Rights Act—and consists of 11 sections dealing with various aspects of civil rights (voting, housing, education, anti-discrimination). Impact of Administrative Changes on DOJ Priorities: A significant theme is how changes in presidential administrations can redirect the focus and priorities of the DOJ and its sections—especially the Voting Section. While career attorneys (not political appointees) do most of the day-to-day work, political appointees set overarching priorities. Normally, shifts happen between administrations, but under the Trump administration, changes were described as “radical departures,” shifting focus to investigate noncitizen voting and prioritizing policies aligned with the president rather than traditional civil rights enforcement.Dismissal of Civil Servants and Dismantling of the Voting Section: The episode highlights the mass removal of senior civil servants in the Voting Section under Trump's administration, replacing experienced managers and ordering the dismissal of all active cases. This unprecedented action is portrayed as a clear signal of political influence overriding apolitical legal work—and is said to undermine the department's ability to fulfill its civil rights mandate.Follow Our Host and Guest: @LevinsonJessica@srl

In January, the HTWM team was invited to record a live episode at the Southern Political Science Association meeting held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.Brianna and Eric sat down with Paul Gronke and Paul Manson of the Elections & Voting Information Center about results of this last year's Local Election Official Survey Project, looking at challenges, attitudes, and job satisfaction.

Send us a textIn this episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome David Maeda, an author and former Director of Elections for Minnesota. David shares his journey through the world of election administration during a tumultuous time for democracy in America. He discusses his memoir, which delves into his experiences, struggles with depression, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Join us as we explore the intricacies of running elections, the safety of the electoral process, and David's personal battles with mental health.

An altercation in the Election Administration, support for Otsneba from the Orthodox Church, the use of police force against protestors, a search warrant for the defense minister, the Tbilisi International Film Festival, and much more!Thanks for tuning in!Let us know what you think and what we can improve on by emailing us at info@rorshok.com You can also contact us through Instagram @rorshok_georgia or Twitter @RorshokGeorgiaLike what you hear? Subscribe, share, and tell your buds. The viral video of Kirtadze throwing paint at Kalandarishvili: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drmGcMGmS8cWe want to get to know you! Please fill in this mini-survey: https://forms.gle/NV3h5jN13cRDp2r66Wanna avoid ads and help us financially? Follow the link: https://bit.ly/rorshok-donate

Stateside checks in with two Michigan clerks as their offices run full steam ahead in administering November's election.  GUESTS ON TODAY'S SHOW: Lawrence Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk Tony Forlini, Macomb County Clerk Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way. If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work. Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode: Democrat Kathy Boockvar and Republican Kim Wyman each served as secretary of state in Pennsylvania and Washington, respectively, during the 2020 presidential election. They've come together this year to help educate voters about the electoral process and share insights from their years of experience. Our Editor-in-Chief Geoff Pallay picks their brains about what administering elections was like in 2020, the challenges we'll see play out over the next few weeks and months, and how to speak across the aisle when it comes to restoring confidence in our system.  OTB will be coming to you DAILY over the next two weeks! Please follow, like, and share the show to help us reach more listeners like you who are looking for unbiased, fact-heavy coverage of election season.  Check out Kathy's page on BP: https://ballotpedia.org/Kathy_Boockvar  Check out Kim's page on BP: https://ballotpedia.org/Kim_Wyman  Learn more about your state's electoral system here: https://ballotpedia.org/Electoral_systems_by_state  Sign up for our Newsletters: https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia_Email_Updates  Stream "On the Ballot" on Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you have questions, comments, or love for BP, feel free to reach out at ontheballot@ballotpedia.org or on X (formerly Twitter) @Ballotpedia. *On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.

Today's bonus episode continues our limited series of interviews with host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan as we explore what's happening across the country heading into the 2024 Elections. Debbie talks with NewDEALer and Chair of the Chester County, Pennsylvania, Board of Commissioners Josh Maxwell. Josh gives us an on-the-ground update from the country's most pivotal swing state and talks about his role as the county's head elections official, how he's supporting poll workers ahead of Election Day, and some of the challenges voters are facing as they begin to fill out their ballots.

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Nate Persily forecasts complications along with it.Persily, a Stanford law professor and a leading expert in election law and administration, says the coming election cycle could pose unprecedented challenges for voters and election officials alike. “We are at a stage right now where there's a lot of anxiety about election administration,” he says. “There's a significant share of the population that's completely lost confidence in our system of elections.”With nearly every state having altered its election laws since 2020 and a significant turnover in election administrators, Persily says the stage is set for a potentially bumpy ride this November. As voter confusion and AI-powered disinformation loom overhead, Persily says the integrity of our democracy may well depend on our collective ability to weather this less-than-perfect storm.Connect:Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast WebsiteStanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn PageRich Ford >>>  Twitter/XPam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School PageStanford Law School >>> Twitter/XStanford  Law Magazine >>> Twitter/XLinks:Nate Persily >>> Stanford Law School Page(00:00) Chapter 1: Introduction and Challenges Ahead for the November Election Nate Persily outlines the primary concerns for the upcoming election, including voter confusion, changes in election laws, and the pressures faced by election officials.(00:03:27) Chapter 2: Decentralization and Election Administration The panel discusses the challenges of managing a national election run by numerous local jurisdictions, including issues with certification and varying local procedures.(00:05:44)  Chapter 3: The Evolving Election Timeline Persily, Karlan, and Ford explore how election day has expanded into an extended voting period, covering early and mail-in voting, and the implications for counting and certification.(00:17:41) Chapter 4: Technology, Disinformation, and Media Influence Examines the impact of technology and disinformation, including deep fakes and misinformation about voting procedures, and their effects on public trust.(00:23:37) Chapter 5: Building Confidence in the Electoral Process Persily discusses strategies to bolster confidence in the election process, emphasizing support for election officials and the role of local leaders in maintaining trust.

Greg Miller, Co-Founder, COO, and Chair of the OSET Institute, joins Deepak Puri, CEO of The Democracy Labs, to discuss using innovative technology to support election administration, including using AI to support call centers to address voters' questions.  OSET has also built an AI model to analyze the text of Project 2025 to connect the dots and cut through the coded language to identify potential risks. Deepak and Geg talk about: Challenges to managing elections in 2024 Types of technology being used to enhance election administration  Building a generative AI model to evaluate Project 2025 and Agenda 47  The future of elections #OSETInstitute #TrusttheVote @TheDemLabs #ElectionAdministration #Project2025 #Agenda47 #AI #VoterSuppression #Voters #Election2024 OSET Institute TrusttheVote.org TheDemLabs.org

Drew Davies, the founder of Oxide, a civic-minded brand and design consultancy, talks about the practical and creative side of his years as a designer and a business founder, his work on election and civic engagement materials, and his recent co-authorship of Creative Genius: The Art of the Nebraska Capitol, a book about the Nebraska Capitol's art.Davies established Oxide in 2001. He is a national president emeritus of AIGA, the professional association for design, and is the only Nebraskan to have served as a judge for the prestigious design competition, Communication Arts Design Annual. As part of his civic work, Davies contributed to the national ballot design standards for the U.S. Election Assistance Commission and collaborated with the Federal Voting Assistance Program to enhance the registration and voting process for U.S. citizens abroad. In partnership with the Center for Civic Design, Davies designed the Field Guides to Ensuring Voter Intent, which were featured in the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. He also testified before President Obama's Presidential Commission on Election Administration. Davies recently designed and co-authored “Creative Genius: The Art of the Nebraska Capitol,” a coffee table book showcasing 100 years of art contained within the State's grandest building, revealing the themes driving the art, and chronicling the stories behind the artists and their creations.

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for June 10, 2024Colorado Governor Signs Election Administration Bill with Amendment Neutralizing an Open Primary and RCV Initiative; Promises Future ActionColorado's governor signed a bill June 6th implementing several election administration changes which local election officials supported.  But a late amendment may have neutralized an open primary and ranked choice voting initiative before the voters in November.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Colorado Sun - If voters adopt statewide ranked choice voting, Colorado may prevent it from taking effectColorado Sun - Colorado governor signs bill that would prevent voter-adopted statewide ranked choice voting from taking effectColorado Legislature - SB24-210 SummaryColorado Secretary of State -  Ballot initiative languageBallotPedia - Colorado Top-Four Ranked-Choice Voting Initiative (2024)Groups Taking Action:Colorado Voters First, Open Primaries, Ranked Choice Voting for ColoradoPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #ColoradoNews #ColoradoPolitics #RCV #OpenPrimaries #RankedChoiceVoting

Wednesday, May 15th, 2024Today, Trump's lawyer starts the cross examination of Michael Cohen; an MSNBC host is aghast to hear that Bill Barr may have been in cahoots with Donald Trump; Donald blasts his trial judges resulting in calls for violence; an Arizona court rejects the RNC's attempt to upend election administration; Biden announces that he will raise tariffs on some Chinese products; House Democrats launch a probe into Trump's dinner with oil executives; plus Allison delivers your Good News.Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.com House Democrats launch probe of Trump's dinner with oil executives (WAPO paywalled)Arizona Court Rejects RNC Attempt to Upend Election Administration (Democracy Docket)Biden Hits Chinese Electric Vehicles, Chips and Other Goods With Higher Tariffs (NYT)Trump blasts his trial judges. Then his fans call for violence (Reuters Special Report) Subscribe to Lawyers, Guns, And MoneyAd-free premium feed: https://lawyersgunsandmoney.supercast.comSubscribe for free everywhere else:https://lawyersgunsandmoney.simplecast.com/episodes/1-miami-1985Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Follow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Follow Mueller, She Wrote on Posthttps://post.news/@/MuellerSheWrote?utm_source=TwitterAG&utm_medium=creator_organic&utm_campaign=muellershewrote&utm_content=FollowMehttps://muellershewrote.substack.comhttps://twitter.com/MuellerSheWrotehttps://www.threads.net/@muellershewrotehttps://www.tiktok.com/@muellershewrotehttps://instagram.com/muellershewroteDana Goldberghttps://twitter.com/DGComedyhttps://www.instagram.com/dgcomedyhttps://www.facebook.com/dgcomedyhttps://danagoldberg.comHave some good news; a confession; or a correction?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/From The Good NewsSt. Mary's Painswickhttps://www.stmaryspainswick.org.uk Live Show Ticket Links:https://allisongill.com (for all tickets and show dates)Sunday, June 2nd – Chicago IL – Schubas TavernFriday June 14th – Philadelphia PA – City WinerySaturday June 15th – New York NY – City WinerySunday June 16th – Boston MA – City WineryMonday June 17th Boston, MA https://tinyurl.com/Beans-Bos2Wednesday July 10th – Portland OR – Polaris Hall(with Dana!)Thursday July 11th – Seattle WA – The Triple Door(with Dana!)Thursday July 25th Milwaukee, WI https://tinyurl.com/Beans-MKESunday July 28th Nashville, TN - with Phil Williams https://tinyurl.com/Beans-TennWednesday July 31st St. Louis, MO https://tinyurl.com/Beans-STLFriday August 16th Washington, DC - with Andy McCabe, Pete Strzok, Glenn Kirschner https://tinyurl.com/Beans-in-DCSaturday August 24 San Francisco, CA https://tinyurl.com/Beans-SF Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/OrPatreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

Tuesday, May 14th, 2024Today, Michael Cohen took the stand in the election interference trial; the Wisconsin Supreme Court seems poised to reverse the ban on ballot drop boxes; Madam Vice President dropped an F bomb and it was spectacular; Russia is trying to exploit America's divisions over the war in Gaza; and Merrick Garland convened an election threat task force meeting; plus Allison delivers your Good News.Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.com Harris utters a profanity in advice to young Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (ABC News)Wisconsin Supreme Court reconsiders legality of absentee drop boxes (Wisconsin Examiner)Russia is trying to exploit America's divisions over the war in Gaza (NBC News)Justice Department vows crackdown on election-related threats (Politico) Subscribe to Lawyers, Guns, And MoneyAd-free premium feed: https://lawyersgunsandmoney.supercast.comSubscribe for free everywhere else:https://lawyersgunsandmoney.simplecast.com/episodes/1-miami-1985Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Follow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Follow Mueller, She Wrote on Posthttps://post.news/@/MuellerSheWrote?utm_source=TwitterAG&utm_medium=creator_organic&utm_campaign=muellershewrote&utm_content=FollowMehttps://muellershewrote.substack.comhttps://twitter.com/MuellerSheWrotehttps://www.threads.net/@muellershewrotehttps://www.tiktok.com/@muellershewrotehttps://instagram.com/muellershewroteDana Goldberghttps://twitter.com/DGComedyhttps://www.instagram.com/dgcomedyhttps://www.facebook.com/dgcomedyhttps://danagoldberg.comHave some good news; a confession; or a correction?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/From The Good NewsWIChttps://www.fns.usda.gov/wicBlue Mink Tonkinesehttps://cats.fandom.com/wiki/Tonkinese Live Show Ticket Links:https://allisongill.com (for all tickets and show dates)Sunday, June 2nd – Chicago IL – Schubas TavernFriday June 14th – Philadelphia PA – City WinerySaturday June 15th – New York NY – City WinerySunday June 16th – Boston MA – City WineryMonday June 17th Boston, MA https://tinyurl.com/Beans-Bos2Wednesday July 10th – Portland OR – Polaris Hall(with Dana!)Thursday July 11th – Seattle WA – The Triple Door(with Dana!)Thursday July 25th Milwaukee, WI https://tinyurl.com/Beans-MKESunday July 28th Nashville, TN - with Phil Williams https://tinyurl.com/Beans-TennWednesday July 31st St. Louis, MO https://tinyurl.com/Beans-STLFriday August 16th Washington, DC - with Andy McCabe, Pete Strzok, Glenn Kirschner https://tinyurl.com/Beans-in-DCSaturday August 24 San Francisco, CA https://tinyurl.com/Beans-SF Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/OrPatreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

I am a proud voting American.  From local, national, primary, or general, I never miss my opportunity to participate in my civic duty and cherished right to vote.  I love the process of going to my polling precinct and casting my ballot.  I slap that sticker on my chest and walk around all day with pride, knowing that instead of choosing to do nothing, I chose to vote.  And I believe, that my vote is counted.  It may not win, but it is always counted.But I am aware that I may be in the minority who believes that my vote is counted.In January 2024, Data for Progress found that 43% of likely voters are either not confident at all or only a little confident in the security of elections.  That percentage rises to 50% if you only look at registered Independents and rises to 69% if you only look at registered Republicans.That is a lot of Americans who do not trust the security of our elections!  I wanted to learn more about the election process.  To see if there is a reason to not trust the system, or to see if this growing mistrust is fueled by misinformation.  My guest this week is Tate Fall, Director of Elections for Cobb County Georgia.  She guides me through the history and process of administering elections, shares how much elections have changed through the years, and dispels some of the most common myths about voter fraud.  This is a conversation you are not going to want to miss.Tate Fall currently serves as the Director of Elections for Cobb County. She has previously served as the Deputy Director of Elections for Arlington County, VA, a Communications Specialist for the United States Election Assistance Commission (EAC), and as a Voting Rights Advocate for Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program. Tate has her B.S. in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies, a Master of Public Administration and a Graduate Certificate in Election Administration all from Auburn University. Support the showKeep up with all things WeSTAT on any (or ALL) of the social feeds:InstagramThreads : westatpodFacebookLinkedInTwitterHave a topic or want to stay in touch via e-mail on all upcoming news?https://www.westatpod.com/Help monetarily support the podcast by subscribing to the show! This is an easy way to help keep the conversations going:https://www.buzzsprout.com/768062/supporters/new

How are states like Arizona preparing for the 2024 presidential election in the United States? How do they ensure the public our votes are safe? And why can't we track our mail-in votes like Uber Eats? Today, we talk with Adrian Fontes, the Secretary of State of Arizona, to discuss the functioning and importance of the electoral process in the United States, with a particular focus on the state of Arizona. What Could Go Right? is produced by The Progress Network and The Podglomerate. For transcripts, to join the newsletter, and for more information, visit: theprogressnetwork.org Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theprogressnetwork And follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @progressntwrk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today - we focus on a recent CNN Investigates segment titled "Not MAGA Enough," which highlighted the turmoil in Cochise County's election administration. The segment aired last week and has been a point of significant discussion.Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How resilient are the independent democratic institutions in Indonesia's current election process?  A chief monitor of electoral agencies, Khoirunissa of the pro-democracy NGO Perludem, examines campaign finance issues, enforcement of rules on gender equality and preparations for conducting candidate debates.  She also takes note of changing roles for key institutions that civil-society organizations (CSOs) had in the past supported as champions -- and points out that CSOs must now remain "alert."  Also in this episode: Jeff and Kevin discuss latest poll data and Ganjar's prolonged struggle to delineate an electoral position.Get our special episode on the 4th Presidential Debate on:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/reformasi/extrasSupport us on buymeacoffee.com/reformasi

What is it like to be the chief lawyer for a major party's presidential candidate in a national campaign? NYU law professor Bob Bauer, general counsel to Obama for America, the president's campaign organization, in 2008 and 2012, and Ben Ginsberg, national counsel to the 2000 and 2004 Bush-Cheney presidential campaigns, as well as Mitt Romney's presidential campaigns in 2008 and 2012, explore with Peter and Dale the roles and challenges of presidential campaign lawyering. They also discuss their roles in co-chairing the Obama Presidential Commission on Election Administration, as well as their co-founding of the Election Official Legal Defense Network.

Today - we're discussing a story that has emerged from the Bisbee Unified School District where a bus driver's actions have stirred up bquite the controversy.Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Nov. 2, 2023Three Democracy Court Cases in Wisconsin May Impact Election Administration, Gerrymandering and Absentee BallotsWe're back in Wisconsin where three democracy lawsuits may have an impact on the state's election administration, access to absentee ballots, and gerrymandered voting districts. Our podcasting host recently made changes which stops us from including our entire script as part of the podcast content.  To view the whole script, please go to our website and find today's report.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Wisconsin Examiner - Embracing election denial, Wisconsin Senate Republicans vote to fire chief election officialWisconsin Examiner - Temporary injunction blocks lawmakers from trying to replace elections administratorAssociated Press/PBS Wisconsin - Dane County judge blocks legislators from removing Wolfe during lawsuitDemocracy Docket - Wisconsin Online Absentee Ballot Application ChallengeDemocracy Docket - Wisconsin Legislative Redistricting ChallengePrinceton Gerrymandering Project/Represent.Us/Electoral Innovation Lab:   Wisconsin 2022 Congressional Maps - Grade = FGroups Taking Action:Common Cause Wisconsin, League of Women Voters WI, Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition, Wisconsin Disability Vote CoalitionPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews  #Wisconsin #WisconsinPolitics #EndGerrymandering #FreedomtoVote 

Michele Coleman Mayes is Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary at The New York Public Library. She previously held the position of General Counsel for Allstate Insurance Company and Pitney Bowes Inc. Ms. Mayes has held a long and prestigious career, having served on several commissions, including the Presidential Commission on Election Administration. She is a sought-after speaker on the topic of diversity and inclusion and is co-author of the book Courageous Counsel: Conversations with Women General Counsel in the Fortune 500. For show notes and more information, visit paulaedgar.com/podcast. In this episode… The beauty of building your brand lies in the opportunities. Once a baseline of success and momentum is established, the continued development of your brand is up to you and your vision. Many people feel hemmed in or indebted to a specific portrayal of themselves, but this does not have to be the case…possibilities lie in reimagining.  Michele Coleman Mayes is an accomplished lawyer and leader with a rich history of working on boards and commissions for a better community. She offers her advice to both young professionals and those looking toward retirement. In both circumstances, there is an opportunity to reimagine the possibilities ahead. In this episode of Branding Room Only, Paula T. Edgar sits down with Michele Coleman Mayes, General Counsel and Secretary for The New York Public Library, to discuss her views on branding and professional development. They discuss giving back to communities, the difference between branding and reputation, and key strategies.Discover how to transform your women's affinity group into a dynamic force that aligns with your organization's mission and empowers women to thrive in leadership roles. Don't miss this opportunity to reshape the future of women's leadership within your organization.February 13 - 12 to 1 pm ETRegister for Is Your Women's Group Winning? at https://www.paulaedgar.com/events/

Election Issues in Harris County, Texas Spawn Bills Aimed at Controlling Its Election AdministrationToday's Script:  (Variations occur with audio due to editing for time) Today's Links now below the scriptYou're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.As the end of the legislative session draws near in Texas, we have an update on bills targeted at controlling Harris County election administration, where logistical and technical problems marred November's election.  Votebeat Texas reports county officials STILL don't have a handle on how many voters were affected by ballot shortages, voting machine access problems, poor training and late openings.  Because Texas law allows county-wide voting, voters could go to another polling place and vote, a reason why it's still unclear how many – if any – were disenfranchised.  A bill ENDING county-wide voting just passed the Senate. The lack of clarity has not stopped bills aimed at Harris County's issues, as well as a pending lawsuit from Republican candidates who claim the problems cost them the election.Votebeat's report on resulting legislation includes Senate Bill 1933, which gives the Secretary of State the power to suspend and replace election officials in a county with a pattern of election administration problems.  Similarly, SB 1039 requires county election officials to give satisfactory answers to questions regarding the election, and allows the state to audit if necessary.Most telling is SB 1750, eliminating the post of election administrator – just in Harris County – and giving election responsibility to the county's clerk and tax collector.   The House hears the bills shortly. We have links to the Votebeat article and more at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.  I'm Brian Beihl.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Washington Post -  (2022) Texas investigating voting difficulties in Houston's Harris CountyTexas Tribune/Votebeat Texas - (2022) Almost two months after Election Day, Harris County still doesn't know if polling site problems kept people from votingHarris County via Votebeat Texas - Harris County Elections 2022 assessmentHouston Public Media - Layoffs in Harris County elections offices may explain some 2022 voting problemsTexas Tribune - Texas Senate moves to end countywide voting on Election DayVotebeat Texas - Here are the Texas election bills to watch with a month left in the legislative sessionGroups Taking Action:League of Women Voters Houston, ACLU Texas, Mi Familia Vota, OCA Houston Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org#Democracy  #DemocracyNews 

In this episode, hosts Brianna Lennon and Eric Fey speak to Clinton Jenkins – a third-generation county clerk in Miller County, Missouri. As of the 2020 Census, Miller County has a population of 24,722.   They spoke about his family legacy of public service, the many tasks that come with the job, and some of the challenges he has faced in his small, rural jurisdiction.

Two Bills Introduced in Congress Would Expand Mail-In Voting in States,  Fund Election AdministrationToday's LinksArticles & Resources:Oregon Capital Chronicle - Wyden, Blumenauer try again to export Oregon mail voting, automatic registration to rest of USSen. Ron Wyden - Vote at Home ActSen. Amy Klobuchar - Sustaining Our Democracy Act HR 7992 (2022 version)  (2023 Sustaining Our Democracy Act SB 630, language not yet posted) National Association of Counties:  (2022 V)   LEGISLATIVE ANALYSIS FOR COUNTIES: SUSTAINING OUR DEMOCRACY ACTAssociated Press - (2021) After voters embraced mail ballots, GOP states tighten rulesGroups Taking Action:National Vote at Home Institute, League of Women Voters US, ACLU, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Common CauseToday's Script:  (Variations occur with audio due to editing for time) You're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.Two pieces of federal legislation introduced last week would expand mail-in voting around the country. One of those bills would also help recruit and train poll workers, and provide financial support for administering elections.Last week, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Earl Blumenauer, both from universal vote-by-mail state Oregon, introduced the Vote at Home Act.   Oregon has conducted every election by mail since 2000.  The legislation automatically registers citizens to vote when they obtain or renew driver's licenses, makes mail-in options available to all voters, and requires pre-paid envelopes to return ballots. Voting by mail reached 50% during the pandemic-impacted 2020 election, up from 25% in 2018.  In last fall's midterms, despite a massive disinformation campaign to discredit it, mail-in voting was still 35% of the ballots cast, an indicator that voters liked the convenience of “kitchen table” voting.  Reintroduced by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar last week was the Sustaining Our Democracy Act, which would increase access to mail-in voting AND early voting.  It also provides funding for recruiting, training and protecting poll workers,  modernizing election equipment, and improving cyber security.  AND it increases funding to cities and counties to administer elections. Disinformation in Congress persists, making passage of the bills uncertain.   We have more at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.  I'm Brian Beihl.

LISTEN: On today's special episode, we take stock of the state of elections in Georgia roughly one year before the presidential race begins in earnest.

In the final episode of our midterms series, we examine how the Republican party's anti-democratic turn is putting pressure on election administrators. When he briefly reneged on a deal to allow Ukrainian grain exports, Vladimir Putin held the world's grain supply hostage – a tactic beloved of strongmen the world over. And HBO turns 50 this year: we assess its legacy. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of our midterms series, we examine how the Republican party's anti-democratic turn is putting pressure on election administrators. When he briefly reneged on a deal to allow Ukrainian grain exports, Vladimir Putin held the world's grain supply hostage – a tactic beloved of strongmen the world over. And HBO turns 50 this year: we assess its legacy. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're less than two weeks away from election day; about three-quarters of a  million ballots have already been cast, and another million absentee ballots have been issued. November 8 may be Election Day, but the election could well drag on for weeks as losing candidates … at least among the Republican nominees … scream “stolen election”. Some of the highlights of this week in Michigan politics: Barack Obama records TV ad promoting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer 5 clashes in the final Gretchen Whitmer-Tudor Dixon gubernatorial debate Michigan governor final debate: Fact checking Tudor Dixon-Gretchen Whitmer | Bridge Michigan Extremist Leader Boasts of Helping Michigan GOP Governor Candidate Tudor Dixon's Campaign Records: DeVos PAC spent $6.3M on Tudor Dixon bid for Michigan governor | Bridge Michigan FACT CHECK: Tudor Dixon's Ad Covers Up Her Dangerous Agenda to Gut School and Public Safety Funding While  Reversing Economic Development  - Michigan Democratic Party Carl Marlinga, John James spar in debate for US House seat Polls Morning Consult weekly tracking poll (national) (October 21-23) CNN Polls shows Whitmer ahead in races for governor Cygnal Poll (October 19-23) CBS YouGov Poll - October 12-14 Michigan's 7th District voters favoring Democratic candidates, but Slotkin-Barrett race tight Joining the conversation this week is Michigan's top non-partisan elections expert, Chris Thomas. Thomas served as the state Elections Director for 36 years under both Republican and Democratic Secretaries of State. In that role he administered Michigan election law, campaign finance act and lobbyist disclosure law and served as Secretary to the Board of State Canvassers. He began his election administration career in 1974 in Washington, D.C. with the Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Federal Election Commission, joining the Michigan Elections office in 1982. In 2013, President Obama appointed Thomas as a Commissioner on the Presidential Commission on Election Administration, which made recommendations to improve the election day experience of America's voters. Thomas earned a B.A. in Political Science from Michigan State University, a M.A. in Urban Affairs from St. Louis University in St. Louis, MO, and a J.D. from Thomas Cooley Law School. ________________________________________________ This week's podcast is underwritten by Practical Political Consulting and EPIC-MRA. We thank them for supporting "A Republic, If You Can Keep It."

How do elections officials prepare for midterm and presidential votes, and what improvements can be made to states' voting systems? Hoover Institution visiting fellow Ben Ginsberg, a preeminent authority on election law, interviews Milwaukee Election Commission executive director Claire Woodall-Vogg and Colorado County Clerks Association executive director Matt Crane on the highs (quick and accurate […]

How do elections officials prepare for midterm and presidential votes, and what improvements can be made to states' voting systems? Hoover Institution visiting fellow Ben Ginsberg, a preeminent authority on election law, interviews Milwaukee Election Commission executive director Claire Woodall-Vogg and Colorado County Clerks Association executive director Matt Crane on the highs (quick and accurate vote counts) and lows (personal threats, election deniers) that come from administering elections in America's battleground states.

First, a PBS reporter breaks down the latest political news and upcoming elections for governor and attorney general. Then, we hear from the state Senate elections committee chair about the state of election administration ahead of the November midterms.

Public libraries around the state are getting creative with federal relief grant money. We find out about the new programs they're investing in and take your shout-outs for your local library system. We also look at other options for state election administration, with some Republican candidates for governor proposing to scrap the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, USD 489 superintendent Ron Wilson and public relations director Chrisy Crough. Public Relations speaks with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney about the next steps follow the passage of a district bond issue.   Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  The USD 489 bond issue has passed. Now the district's work begins. Superintendent Ron Wilson speaks with Hays Post reporter Christina Janney about that along with public relations specialist Chrisy Crough, on this episode of the Post Podcast.   Cristina Janney  We're here to talk a little bit about the USD 49 bond that passed on Tuesday night, the $143.5 million bond passed with 53% of voters voting for the bond. In addition, almost 60% of voters approved a half cent suit, hey, city of hate sales tax that will help pay for the bond. Good morning, Ron and Christie, how are you?   Ron Wilson  Great. We're feeling good.   Cristina Janney  So what do you think the passage of the bond means for the future students and staff in the high school districts?   Ron Wilson  Well, I think what what it means I think, as we've looked at this whole process is that it's people have said, we want to invest in our kids want to invest in our educational staff, and we want to invest in our community. And I think that's really what this means is that they said, This is important, and this is what needs to happen in the community. Hey, so from looking at all aspects of it, we're, we just feel that it's going to be a great thing for Hayes for a long, long time, and really gonna pay it forward.   Cristina Janney  So the voter turnout on Tuesday was 38%, which is pretty high for a special election. Were you pleased with the voter turnout?   Ron Wilson  Yeah, extremely pleased that we said from the beginning, that, you know, we always felt like we had more support than opposition, as long as we could get those who supported the bond to go out and vote, we felt like we could get this accomplished. And I think 38% is a, if you look at the history of bond votes, it's pretty high number. So I think that's exactly what we set out to do. We got accomplished.   Cristina Janney  So what are the next steps in the bond process?   Chrisy Crough Yeah, so the next steps will be to meet with the staff on each of the schools, teachers, administrators, kitchen staff, coaches, all that sort of stuff to go over exactly what needs to be done in those buildings, they know better than anybody else, because they're in the building. So they will have the input on that. They'll work with the architects directly. And then they'll go back and forth with the drawings and see what happens, the high school will be the first, the first building that is that's done that's focused on, and then we'll move through the other buildings after that.   Cristina Janney  Just to remind people, so the main tenant of this bond is that we're build a new high school, and then the high school will be renovated into a middle school, and then the current Middle School will be renovated into an elementary school. Roosevelt, and often schools will also have some renovations and additions. And then Wilson will close as an elementary school but still be repurposed for district needs. And Rockwell will be closed completely, and west side will be moved. So do we know when we're going to be able to break ground on that first building on the on the high school?   Ron Wilson  Yeah, well, that's That's the million dollar question, though. You know, like Chris, you mentioned, it's right now, it's just a lot of conversations. We've got approximately a year of visiting with people getting what we feel is the best design, will the architects will draw design will get estimated cost then and always be going back and forth. I would hope. I mean, I don't hold me to this. But I would, I would hope we would be breaking ground a year from now. Or maybe sooner. But I think tentatively we're probably looking at an April May, breaking ground for from the new high school.   Chrisy Crough And I spoke with Sorry to interrupt anybody here, but I spoke with Dr. Last night, we were talking about it. And they were saying that the civil engineers will be out there looking at the ground where the new high school will be built out looking how it slopes, looking where the electrical could go looking at all of the different logistics of it all to make, you know, just before they start really building and designing everything.   Cristina Janney  And for people who may not know the high school, the new high school will be built to the east of the current High School on ground that is already owned by the school district.   Ron Wilson  Yeah, that's that's been a blessing to have already had district owned property throughout this process. And the district purchasing that that additional property, probably way back in the 70s was was just a great foresight for our community.   Cristina Janney  Through this whole bond process. We've talked a lot about How having those two buildings the new high school and what will be the renovated middle school being in close proximity how that'll benefit students? Do you want to talk a little bit about that,   Ron Wilson  I think it just opens so many doors that we currently don't have open because of just the location of the high school, middle school, I mean, naturally, the big thing is, we're going to have an auditorium for our high school, as well as our middle school, the high auditorium will be actually housed at the new high school, but it will have easy access for our middle school students who will be utilizing that for performances, to just walk across their campus, to the to the auditorium and, and whether it's a band concert that evening, they'll be able to practice and then utilize that for the evening performance. So Well, I think it's just those are the things that are that seem logical, but then there's just so many avenues where, you know, what, even high school kids coming, and we're gonna have some things working with maybe some middle school kids and things like that, that just opened doors that we've never even considered. And I think that's what's exciting about this whole proposal, athletic services, of course, that's really something we're gonna have athletic surfaces out there on the on our campus, which will be available for middle school and high school student athletes. And I think that that is something we're really excited about.   Chrisy Crough And to add to that, the middle school, which will be moving into the current high school will have the career and technology classes that they don't have right now at the current Middle School, solely because of space. So they will get those the woods and the metal shop and the the electric car, you know, all of that sort of stuff will be in there that's already in the high school, but now the middle school students will be able to access that.   Cristina Janney  So is there an estimated completion time for the high school building?   Ron Wilson  Yeah, I mean, the estimated timeline is that we're we're hoping to move our high school students into a new building in August at the start of school in August of 2024. That's, that's our target date. We'll also target to have all of our other schools renovated by August of 2025. Now all that information can be found on our USD 49. website, under timeline, under the bond information. So yeah, if you have any questions about timeline, be sure to check that out.   Cristina Janney  I don't we're several years off from the consolidation, and the closing of Lincoln school. But do you want to talk a little bit about how the redistribution of students will work when that happens here and a few years out?   Ron Wilson  Sure, I will be adding sections to each elementary to one section to each elementary, that'll that'll be the increase, that won't, you won't see a huge increase in each building, but I think that's it, we'll, we'll evenly distributed among the three elementaries that will remain in our district and, and give us some, you know, functionality in terms of, of spacing and space available. And when people were still district of choice, meaning they parents get to choose where their kids go to school. So, having that additional space just gives us that functionality to make sure we can we can definitely meet those requests, as best we can.   Cristina Janney  I know through this bond process, some people have expressed some concerns about the increased traffic on 13th Street when the new high school is constructed, what steps will the school district and the city be taking to address that issue?     So, once Well, obviously, prior to we kept saying once this passes, we will do that, but now it has passed so we can actually speak of it in present tense, but we will meet with the city we will do traffic studies and see exactly what needs to be done how the flow of traffic will work. We have looked into some grants that there that are out there that can help with the with the cost of it because we do know that there will be additional traffic we do understand, you know, we will have to stagger start and dismissal times to help with the flow of traffic but it will be addressed as far as what it is at this point. We don't know once we really look into it, but it will be addressed and and make it function out there.   Cristina Janney  So Christy and Ron, are there anything else that you would like to add or let the our listeners know about the bond now that it has passed?   Ron Wilson  Well, I think the thing is that I want to make sure everyone understand is we're we're really proud of what we do and USD 49. But with the passing of this bond, I think it's it's about how proud we can become on what we can become with with the passing of this bond. It's just gonna Oh Put some things that we have. We've dealt with for a lots and lots of years. And it was it was, it was a tough process. I mean, it's it was been a lot of work and a lot of dedicated, committed people in our community who came together and really rallied together to make this happen. And I'm I'm just appreciative and feel very blessed to be have been a part of that. You know, special shout out to Chrissy Crowe for what she's done for, for getting the right information out, helping educate our community, on really what was was done and what was what is needed. And so we're we're just, it's been a, it's been a really a tough process, but also kind of uplifting in a lot of ways, because we've all learned how together, you know, when people come together, how we can get things accomplished.   Cristina Janney  I know, there's been a lot of discussion about the high cost of maintaining some of these older buildings, which Lincoln by the time this project is completed will be 100 years old. So is there hopes that some of the capital improvement, many that's been having to be spent on maintenance and fixing older buildings will be able to be directed towards other projects?   Ron Wilson  Yeah, that's, that's the thing we're really excited about, because we haven't had a lot of flexibility in our capital improvement spending. I mean, it's basically we've been spending dollars base to keep keep the boat on the water and not have it sink. And so when by passing of this bond, we're going to we're going to take care of a lot of those needs. And that's going to free up a lot of capital outlay funds that we can now look at some of those special projects that the board wants to prioritize and, and really do some really great things for our schools.   Anything else?   Ron Wilson  I I'm just just, hi. I'm extremely excited. Bill really blessed that we got this done. And it's been, it's been a long haul but it's gonna be well worth it and it's gonna pay forward for lots and lots of years.

Kim Brace joins The Great Battlefield podcast to talk about his career and founding Election Data Services, where they've been doing Redistricting for over 44 years.

This interview took place in March before Stephanie Thomas became the endorsed candidate for this office.  For more info: WebsiteThis interview focuses on the Election Administration component of the job and how Stephanie Thomas became interested in the opportunity to serve in this capacity. They could have discussed the job for much longer.  Stephanie Thomas is currently State Representative in 143rd District including Westport, Wilton and Norwalk.

Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin will soon have authority to reshape the staff of Virginia's election administration; State officials say there was a second ransomware attack affecting Virginia agencies; Virginia home care workers, immigrants, parents and business owners are calling on U.S. Senate leaders to pass the president's Build Back Better spending plan; and other local news stories.

On this episode of Conversations with Clint, Rep. Owlett talks with fellow state Reps. Eric Nelson and Jim Struzzi about their work to prohibit outside money from being used to administer the state's elections. Other topics include an upcoming hearing about stream clearing to prevent flooding and more.

On this episode of Conversations with Clint, Rep. Owlett talks with fellow state Reps. Eric Nelson and Jim Struzzi about their work to prohibit outside money from being used to administer the state's elections. Other topics include an upcoming hearing about stream clearing to prevent flooding and more.

The Wall Street Journal is trolling, Tucker Carlson has gone full Alex Jones, and Michael Flynn is comparing Dr. Fauci to Dr. Mengele. Tom Nichols joins Charlie Sykes on today's podcast. Special Guest: Tom Nichols.

October 1, 2021 - Senate Elections Committee Chair Zellnor Myrie, a Brooklyn Democrat, shares what he has learned about election administration while crisscrossing the state and offers ideas on achieving smoother elections in the future.

Alec Ewald, professor at the University of Vermont and author of The Way We Vote, joins Brianna and Eric for a conversation about 19th Century election administration, felon voting enfranchisement, and even a little bit of art history.

This week, I'm looking at five key issues: How election administration is again being undermined across the country Mitch McConnell's semi-unexpected announcement about the Supreme Court The latest pipeline fights and infrastructure developments Highlights from Biden's first European trip The latest in Covid vaccinations and work mandates

Ben Ginsberg is a nationally known elections lawyer. He served as national counsel to the Bush-Cheney presidential campaigns in the 2000 and 2004 election cycles and played a central role in the 2000 Florida recount. He was also appointed by President Barack Obama to serve as co-chair of the bipartisan Presidential Commission on Election Administration. In this episode he discusses the voting bills that are being considered in the states. 

This is episode two of a three-part series on election security. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) was established by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA). EAC is an independent, bipartisan commission charged with developing guidance to meet HAVA requirements, adopting voluntary voting system guidelines, and serving as a national clearinghouse of information on election administration. EAC also accredits testing laboratories and certifies voting systems, as well as audits the use of HAVA funds. Benjamin Hovland was nominated by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by unanimous consent of the United States Senate on January 2, 2019, to serve on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC). Commissioner Hovland serves as the Designated Federal Officer for the Technical Guidelines Development Committee (TGDC). Donald Palmer was nominated by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by unanimous consent of the United States Senate on January 2, 2019, to serve on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC). Commissioner Palmer is a former Bipartisan Policy Center Fellow where he advanced the recommendations of the Presidential Commission on Election Administration to resolve the voting technology crisis, find ways to reduce lines of voters and improve the voting experience. ————————————————————————— To learn more about this episode, including podcast transcripts and show notes, visit *salt.org/talks* ( http://salt.org/talks ) Moderated by Anthony Scaramucci.

Feb. 18, 2021 - After weeks of legal drama, New York's 22nd congressional district finally has a representative in Congress again. Josh Rosenblatt, Senior Reporter at WBNG 12 News, outlined all of the drama and the latest developments in the saga.

Tomorrow Congress will begin what is normally a brief ceremony, the counting of the Electoral Votes and the certification of the winners. But this time promises to be quite different. Vice President Pence will preside, and President Trump claimed in a tweet today that he will have the power to reject fraudulent electors, and set aside the results According to the Constitution and the relevant statute, that is not actually true, and an overwhelming majority of the U-S Senate seems to agree. But what does the law actually say, and how could this unfold tomorrow? For more on all of this, KCBS Radio news anchors Jeff Bell and Patti Reising along with KCBS Radio political reporter Doug Sovern, were joined by Stanford Law professor Nathan Persily, former Senior Research Director of the Presidential Commission on Election Administration and co-director of the Stanford-MIT Project on a Healthy Election.

Franita Tolson, vice dean and law professor at USC specializing in election law, and Benjamin L. Ginsberg, veteran Republican election attorney who co-chaired the bipartisan 2013 Presidential Commission on Election Administration, talk about changes that could come for election law after President Trump has spent weeks trying to overturn the results of the election.

Today's Midday podcast covers A federal judge refusing to issue an injunction preventing five Wisconsin cities from using private grants to help put on next month's election. 

This episode of Mastering Public Service is with Connie Schmidt, the Election Commissioner for Johnson County Kansas, the largest county in the state. Connie served as the election commissioner from 1995 to 2005 before owning and running an election consulting business that has provided consulting services to numerous local and state agencies. Connie was reappointed by the Secretary of State to serve as Election Commissioner for Johnson County in February 2020 and has worked in local government in Johnson County for a total of 31 years and previously served as City Clerk for the City of Merriam, Kansas. In December 2004 she received the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) Medallion Award for outstanding service to American democracy. In August 2005 received a Lifetime Membership Award from the Election Center, Inc. and in August 2007 received the Election Hall of Fame Award from The Election Center Inc. Its safe to say that she knows more than just a little bit about the administration of elections and possibly more than anyone in the state and probably the region. There are so many things about the administration of elections that most of us do not know and she helps makes the how elections are run a lot clearer. In addition to a very useful discussion about election administration we discuss her career and her love for public service.

Nate's website, which shows all his new events and work“Nate Persily Asks Whether Democracy Can Survive the Internet,” a Lawfare Podcast episodeA New York Times op-ed on voting by Nate, Bob Bauer, Ben Ginsberg, members of the Presidential Commission on Election Administration

In its April 2020 primary election, Wisconsin experienced serious problems in its absentee balloting processes, which led to a federal court case (RNC v. DNC) that the U.S. Supreme Court ultimately resolved on election eve. The problem was that in the face of the current pandemic, the number of voters who requested an absentee ballot overwhelmed the election officials’ ability to get the ballots to the voters in time to cast them. The result was the disenfranchisement of tens of thousands of Wisconsin voters, controversy over the federal courts’ ability to remedy this disenfranchisement, and confusion of the voters. But that Supreme Court decision has done little to solve the problem or to reduce the possibility of an analogous controversy in the future. Indeed, this podcast will consider whether the risk of a similar problem in November is every bit as great. For instance, consider the challenge that would confront Pennsylvania – already taxed by having to administer a new mail-in voting law that for the first time will allow any voter to request an absentee ballot – if an outbreak or resurgence of COVID-19 occurs in Philadelphia in the weeks prior to Election Day.

In this episode of Security Nation, we speak with Rob Graham, founder of Errata Security Consultancy, well-known security blogger, and soon-to-be book author. In it, he talks about the process of creating (and naming!) BlackICE, and his new efforts to write a book “out of spite” to right the security wrongs he is seeing in the industry. Rob also shares some of his writing process and advice for others looking to take on similar projects.Also, join Tod for the Rapid Rundown where he discusses how security pros can weigh in on election security through the Election Assistance Commission’s 2020 Election Administration and Voting Survey (2020 EAVS) and IT-ISAC’s request for information in the Election Industry SIG. Tod also reveals some key findings from Rapid7’s latest Industry Cyber-Exposure Report (ICER), which examines the level of exposure in top German organizations.

(0:00) Local News Chat: Suicide by Cop & Active Shooter Training (18:56) Your Take on Passing the Republican Budget (39:07) LIFE in Motion: Outagamie County Clerk Lori O'Bright on Voting (58:02) Jessie Opoien, Cap Times, on Budget, Barnes & Business (1:29:33) The Takeaway: The Transformational Power of Association

e·lec·tion noun 1: a formal group decision-making process by which a population chooses an individual to hold public office. To put it simply, elections are one of the fundamental tenants of liberal democracy. Democracies are built on the idea that individual citizens have a say in who governs them and how. Elections are how we make that happen. Holding elections does not mean a country is democratic; however, no country can be a democracy without them. But here is the thing—elections are incredibly complex processes that require organization and high levels of technical knowledge. So what does it take to run a smooth election? And what are some of the consequences when these processes don't work well? Our host Travis Green speaks with two IRI experts who draw examples from recent elections in Moldova and El Salvador to answer these questions -Patricio Gajardo, Resident Program Director for Guatemala and Stephanie Roland, Program Manager for Moldova

Bob Bauer served as White House Counsel to President Obama and was co-chair of the Presidential Commission on Election Administration. He speaks with Preet about the universe of lawyers surrounding President Trump, from Matt Whitaker to Don McGahn to Rudy Giuliani, and what America must do to protect its elections. Plus, Preet makes sense of the Paul Manafort news. Do you have a question for Preet? Tweet them to @PreetBharara with the hashtag #askpreet, email staytuned@cafe.com, or call 669-247-7338 and leave a voicemail.  

Because U.S. states employ over 16 million people and hold the data of almost all American residents, state governments are major targets for data villains seeking to obtain data about us. How safe is our personal information in the hands of state governments and what security challenges must states address to better protect personal data? Podcast guest Trey Grayson is a veteran of these issues, having served as Kentucky’s Secretary of State for eight years and later as director of Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government’s Institute of Politics and member of the President’s Commission on Election Administration, which reviewed the 2012 election. Trey is now a principal of the public policy firm CivicPoint and an attorney with Frost Brown Todd LLC. As an attorney and public policy expert, Trey offers guidance on the state of cybersecurity and state-held data in episode 26 of the Data Privacy Detective podcast.

The Internet was once seen as a democratizing force, but today social media platforms have become exploitable intermediaries of political discourse. How should governments, institutions and tech companies respond? In the wake of an Internet-mediated and norm-breaking 
election, we've asked one of the United States' premier election law experts to speak for us about what comes next. Author and Stanford Law professor Nathaniel Persily focuses on the law of democracy, addressing issues such as voting rights, political parties, campaign finance and redistricting. A sought-after nonpartisan voice in voting rights, he has served as a court-appointed expert to draw legislative districting plans for Georgia, Maryland and New York and as special master for the redistricting of Connecticut’s congressional districts. His other principal area of scholarly interest concerns American public opinion toward various constitutional controversies. Persily designed the Constitutional Attitudes Survey, a national public opinion poll executed in both 02009 and 02010. The survey includes an array of questions concerning attitudes toward the Supreme Court, constitutional interpretation and specific constitutional controversies. He also served on the Presidential Commission on Election Administration, a bipartisan commission created by President Obama to deal with the long lines at the polling place and other administrative problems witnessed in the 02012 election.

Will earlier work to improve the voters' experience at the polls be abandoned thanks to unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud? Is the "Election Integrity" commission established by President Trump going to undermine efforts to improve voting rights? Is there a future for the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, one of whose members is joining the Trump-established commission? On Episode 16 of the ELB Podcast, we talk with Bob Bauer, former White House Counsel and co-chair of the Obama-established Presidential Commission on Election Administration.

Maribeth Witzel-Behl and Josh Kaul discuss election administration

We spoke with Doug Chapin, Director of the Program for Excellence in Election Administration at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, about our electoral system, voting in Minnesota, and how he has several degrees, but none from the electoral college.

Midterms 2014 are just around the corner, and for Repubicans it seems the voting can’t come soon enough. State by state, poll by poll, the GOP appears to pick up steam by the day. They can taste Senate control.Are the appearances true? Might there even be a Republican wave? Which key races – in the Senate and the House – should we make sure to watch?David King is Senior Lecturer in Public Policy at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. He directed the Task Force on Election Administration for the National Commission on Election Reform following the 2000 presidential elections and recently hosted a conversation on the upcoming Midterms…