Poll workers check voters in the presidential primary election at Windham High School on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 in Windham, New Hampshire (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
AUSTIN (NEXSTAR) — As election officials in Texas and across the country face increasing pressure and harassment, a new report shows a steady increase in turnover among top administrators.
A report released Tuesday by the Bipartisan Policy Center shows that nationally, the attrition rate has increased from 28% in 2004 to 39% in 2022. The report examines election worker turnover data from 2000 to 2024, which it defines as “changes in election commissions.” He has been the district's election administrator since the November general election four years ago. ”
In Texas, the number of election officials resigning skyrocketed in the mid-2000s. In 2004 his turnover rate was 28%, but in 2008 he rose to 44%. In 2012 he again dropped to 30%, and in 2012 he rose to 40%. 2016 — This percentage has remained relatively unchanged since then.
Researchers cite intimidation of election officials as a key factor in increased turnover.
Dana DeBeauvoir, who oversaw elections as Travis County Clerk for more than 30 years, said she has great concerns about these trends and the future of elections. Mr. de Beauvoir will retire in 2022.
“These administrators are doing a job that is desperately needed. This work requires competency and continuity, and we need to ensure these people are supported in the community,” she said. Told. “It's your neighbors and friends who are actually doing this job…Most election officials are appointed, which means they don't have much personal authority to protect themselves. is.”
As a solution, the report recommends that state governments increase salaries for election workers and create succession plans to transfer knowledge from years of experience.
This is a story in development. Please check the latest information.Capitol Correspondent Monica Madden will have a full report on KXAN at 6 p.m.
