In recent years, local election officials across the United States have faced mounting challenges that have significantly impacted their roles and well-being. A 2024 survey by the Elections & Voting Information Center (EVIC) revealed that job satisfaction among these officials has stabilized at 77%, down from 91% in 2020. More than half have endured personal insults, while 36% have reported harassment. This hostile environment, combined with increasing workloads, has led to fewer officials feeling proud to discuss their work or recommend the profession to others.
Despite these challenges, the 2024 EVIC survey also highlights several positive outcomes that demonstrate the resilience and dedication of these stewards of democracy. Confidence in election administration has rebounded since 2020, particularly at the national level, reflecting improved processes and greater trust in election integrity. Additionally, election officials continue to prioritize voter engagement, with more than 60% believing that encouraging turnout is a key part of their role.
The Elections & Voting Information Center (EVIC) has released these findings from its 2024 Local Election Official (LEO) Survey. Conducted by EVIC at the Center for Public Service, Mark O. Hatfield School of Government, Portland State University, and supported by the Democracy Fund and the Election Trust Initiative, this research provides crucial insights into the challenges and successes experienced by election officials across the United States. Below are the top 10 findings from this year’s survey:
- Election Confidence: 98.5% of LEOs are confident in their office’s ability to administer the 2024 election.
- Job Satisfaction: Stabilized at 77%, down from 91% in 2020. Following the 2020 election, the percentage of LEOs who would recommend that a child pursue election work dropped by half, from 40% to 20%.
- Threats and Harassment: Over 50% of LEOs have faced personal insults, and 14% have considered leaving due to safety concerns.
- Misinformation: 68% of LEOs identify misinformation as a significant issue, especially in larger jurisdictions.
- Workloads: Election-related workloads increase significantly during election periods, particularly in smaller jurisdictions.
- Hiring and Succession: Persistent hiring challenges and high turnover rates, driven by retirement and concerns over harassment.
- Demographics: The average LEO is a mid-50s woman earning just over $50,000 annually. Additionally, 40% of LEOs will be eligible for retirement by 2028, 86% are white, and 56% hold a college degree.
- Legislative Changes: 72% of LEOs have been affected by new state legislation, yet only 27% believe these changes have positively impacted election administration.
- Voter Education: Over 60% of LEOs see educating voters and encouraging turnout as part of their responsibilities.
- Public Records Requests: 72% of LEOs report that responding to public records requests is a significant burden.
The 2024 EVIC Local Election Officials Survey captures the voices of more than 650 local election officials nationwide, highlighting critical trends and real-world challenges in election administration.
To explore the full report and gain further insights, click here.