New Findings: Election Staff Concerns

Findings of the Board of Elections Interviews

by the League of Women Voters of NC and Democracy NC

August 2015

Volunteers with the League of Women Voters of NC or Democracy North Carolina interviewed the executive directors of 36 county boards of elections in the winter and spring of 2015. The survey asked directors about their concerns with administering the 2016 elections, including recruiting and training poll workers, educating voters, and budgeting for equipment. It also asked about their interest in online voter registration and about ways community groups may be helpful to election officials.

Major Findings:

• With 4 elections and more than 40 election days possible next year, the usual concern about finding adequate staff has become more pressing. Use of computers and electronic poll books means more tech-savvy and better trained poll workers are needed.
• The ID requirement and other changes in the law are confusing for voters and poll workers alike. There is an urgent need for poll worker training and statewide education for voters about the rules and how they will be implemented at the polls.
• Many districts need upgrades to existing voting equipment, more machines and associated training. The mandated shift to paper ballots places a further strain on many county budgets where new machines are required.
•  The separate presidential primary in March is not only costly but presents logistical challenges to counties seeking polling locations, workers and the associated funds.

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