History of Election official in Timeline

An election official is responsible for managing elections, overseeing aspects like voter registration, polling, and vote counting. These roles can be full-time, part-time, or temporary, depending on the jurisdiction and specific tasks involved in the electoral process. They ensure the integrity and smooth operation of elections.

2000: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act

In 2000, under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act, a chief counting officer, appointed by the Electoral Commission's chairman, and counting officers were designated to oversee referendums, mirroring the role of returning officers in elections.

2000: Launch of Election Official Legal Defense Network

In Fall 2021, Robert Bauer and Benjamin Ginsberg launched the Election Official Legal Defense Network (EOLDN) to provide pro bono legal assistance to election administrators. The year 2000 is not relevant to this event.

2016: Russian Electoral Interference

Following the Russian government's electoral interference in the 2016 United States elections, which included cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, election officials collaborated with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to enhance election infrastructure security.

2017: Election of Poll Workers in Pennsylvania

In 2017, poll workers in Pennsylvania were elected by their neighbors for a four-year term, as part of the election cycle following the US Presidential election.

2020: Rise in threats and harassment

During and after the 2020 United States presidential election, there was an unprecedented rise in threats and harassment directed at election officials, fueled by disproven claims of election fraud.

2020: Increased Security Measures by Election Officials

Following the 2020 election, some election officials began varying their routes, training in de-escalation, and upgrading home security due to safety concerns.

2021: Election of Poll Workers in Pennsylvania

In 2021, poll workers in Pennsylvania were elected by their neighbors for a four-year term, as part of the election cycle following the US Presidential election.

2021: Launch of Election Official Legal Defense Network

In Fall 2021, Robert Bauer and Benjamin Ginsberg launched the Election Official Legal Defense Network (EOLDN) to provide pro bono legal assistance to election administrators.

2022: Turnover Rate of Election Officials

In 2022, a study revealed a 39% turnover rate for election officials, highlighting an exodus from the profession.

June 2024: Expansion of Election Official Legal Defense Network

As of June 2024, the Election Official Legal Defense Network (EOLDN) consisted of more than 6,000 attorneys in 47 states, providing legal assistance to election administrators.

February 2025: Expansion of EOLDN's Scope

In February 2025, the Election Official Legal Defense Network (EOLDN) expanded its scope to include assisting election officials targeted by federal agencies.