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    July 03, 2024 ABA Task Force for American Democracy

    Tips for Transparency: How Local Election Officials Can Strengthen Voter Trust in Elections

    The Carter Center
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    Summary

    This report provides recommendations for local election officials. The recommendations focus on transparency measures that can strengthen voter trust in elections. The report examines four case studies of counties that have employed the recommended best practices to achieve transparency in their electoral process: (1) Boulder County, Colorado; (2) Weber County, Utah; (3) Pasco County, Florida; and (4) Orange County, California.

    Key Findings/Messages

    Transparency in the electoral process increases public trust which, in turn, is critical to increasing voter participation and confidence in election outcomes. Local election officials must pursue the goal of transparency at all stages of the election process: before, during, and after election day. Local election officials are well positioned to conduct voter outreach and improve public confidence in elections.

    Key Recommendations Made

    1. Commit to transparent electoral operations.
    2. Create and share election-related content on social media and the internet.
    3. Proactively engage the media and educate reporters on the electoral process.
    4. Invite voters to observe the electoral process, either in-person or virtually.
    5. Promote transparency even when there are issues with the electoral process.
    6. Facilitate the participation of authorized poll watchers and monitors.