National Democratic County Officials
Election Protection Task Force
Statement of Principles for the Administration of American Elections
The Election Protection Task Force of the National Democratic County Officials seeks to guide local elections officials with key principles to secure the integrity of our elections and foster confidence in the process and outcome of American elections.
Whereas, elections in the United States are decentralized and predominately administered by county and local elections officials; and
Whereas, local elections officials are charged with interpreting and enacting strategies within the guidelines of federal and state election law to administer elections; and
Whereas, every local election jurisdiction implements election administration individually; and
Whereas, local elections officials work cooperatively to provide support and guidance;
The Election Protection Task Force of the National Democratic County Officials does hereby commit to the following principles:
- The American people own the election and their vote is their voice.
- Communication needs to be thorough and inclusive of all regardless of physical ability, language or socio-economics.
- Simplicity and efficiency are the hallmarks of a positive voter experience.
- Voters should always remain the top priority in elections administration and process decisions.
- Transparency builds confidence in the system and outcome.
- Security of the entire elections process is essential.
- Elections integrity requires accountability of local elections officials.
American elections are the ultimate foundation for our democracy. As we strive to advance a more perfect Union, and move away from exclusionary policies and laws of the past, we adopt these principles in order to move towards equitable and inclusive elections for all Americans. Elections administrators must serve as responsible stewards when considering the voter experience, confidence in the system, and all aspects of security.
