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The Clearinghouse Awards, also known as the “Clearie” Awards, are presented annually across the U.S. for best practices in election administration by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC). Established by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA), the EAC is charged with serving as a clearinghouse for election administration information. To further this mission, the EAC launched the Clearies in 2016 to promote best practices in elections and celebrate the accomplishments of election officials.
The EAC is excited to recognize the hard work and innovation of the 2025 Clearie Winners. In addition to the 46 programs listed below, the EAC is also recognizing 37 programs with Clearie Honorable Mention awards. You can also read the press release for more information on the announcement.
2025 Clearinghouse Award Categories
- Communications: Distinguished Voter Education and Communications Initiatives
- Uniformed and Overseas Voters: Exemplary Service to Assist Military and Overseas Voters
- Election Administration: Innovations or New Practices in Election Administration
- Accessibility: Best Practices for Improving Access for Voters with Disabilities
- Security: Innovation and New Tools in Election Security and Technology
- Poll Workers: Best Practices in Recruiting, Retaining, and Training Poll Workers
- HAVA Grants: Outstanding Use of HAVA Grants in Elections Modernization
- Contingency Planning: Exemplary Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Efforts
- "I Voted" Stickers: Creative and Original "I Voted" Stickers
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Small Jurisdictions
Cherokee County Elections & Voter Registration, Georgia
Empowering Voices: A Community Guide to Elections
The purpose of the Empowering Voices: A Community Guide to Elections program is to inform the public, offer clear information to voters, and provide a transparent platform for outreach and questions. This voter education initiative empowers citizens by offering essential knowledge about the electoral process, voting rights, and the importance of participating in elections. Program activities include meeting the Cherokee County Elections team, learning about the legal framework of elections, understanding registration basics, reviewing the elections process, and touring the elections office facility. The structured curriculum helps participants deepen their understanding of elections and share what they learn within their communities.
Outreach targets elected officials, boards of elections and commissioners, mayors, legislators, civic groups like Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce, and Rotary Clubs, political and church groups, and the citizens of Cherokee County. To date, the program has served hundreds of participants, including representatives from 12 Georgia counties, State Election Board members and investigators, Georgia Secretary of State staff, and Cherokee County voters.
City of White Settlement, Office of the City of Secretary/Chief Governance Officer, Texas
Ask the City Secretary: Interactive Election Q&A Video Series
By transforming routine election information into engaging visual content, the City of White Settlement modernized voter education, making trusted information more accessible, understandable, and memorable for the community. The city developed animated, interview-style social media videos simulating a question-and-answer session with the city secretary, who serves as the election administrator. Topics included voting locations, identification requirements, accessibility options, voting rights, and what to expect at the polls. The conversational structure reinforced trust by highlighting a recognizable local official as the source of accurate information. Text-based visuals improved accessibility for viewers watching without audio and enhanced retention through clear presentation.
Distributed through the city’s social media platforms, the videos reached residents who may not otherwise engage with traditional election materials. Launched during the 2024 election cycle and with plans for future use, the initiative requires minimal financial resources while strengthening public familiarity with voting procedures and providing a replicable model for jurisdictions of any size.
Floyd County Elections, Georgia
Hey Neighbor: A Community-Based Voter Education and Communications Campaign
Hey Neighbor, is a community-based voter education campaign that uses friendly, neighbor-to-neighbor messaging to make election information clear and accessible. At its core is a refrigerator magnet with a QR code linking to a centralized webpage with early voting details, the My Voter Page, and the full election calendar. The Hey Neighbor theme extends across print, social media, press releases, and a quarterly newspaper column that addresses community questions in a conversational, nonpartisan tone. By combining consistent branding, trusted local media, and centralized information, the program reduces confusion, highlights accurate information, and fosters cost-effective election administration. For voters, Hey Neighbor improves access to clear, timely, and trustworthy election information, increasing confidence and reducing confusion.
Medium Jurisdictions
Polk County Supervisor of Elections, Florida
High School Voter Registration Outreach: 2025-2026
Over the past two years, the Supervisor of Elections Office implemented a communication-first strategy to improve how it educates and engages high school students. This has resulted in increased voter registration and stronger student involvement. A short informational video prepares students before visits, ensuring they bring the correct identification and arrive ready to register. Interactive trivia and incentives further boost engagement, making first-time registration a positive experience. The approach also improved efficiency and reduced staffing needs from four to five staff members per school to just two, while increasing transactions by 151%, from 529 to more than 1,330.
Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections, Florida
150 Feet of Clarity: Proactive Outreach for a Positive Voting Experience
In response to increased engagement during the 2024 primary election, the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections launched a proactive campaign to clarify Florida’s 150-foot no solicitation zone ahead of the general election. Targeted outreach informed candidates, parties, and facility managers of requirements. Additionally, voters received a countywide newsletter, and staff were equipped with a troubleshooting guide. Visual maps of all voting sites illustrated zone boundaries, and a “Polling Location Basics” document clarified roles and responsibilities. Through coordinated, multi-channel communication, the initiative reduced confusion and challenges, improved voter access, and supported more efficient operations for early voting and Election Day, now and into the future.
Wake County Board of Elections, North Carolina
Media Partnership & Transparency Initiative
Since 2018, the Wake County Board of Elections has implemented the Media Partnership and Transparency Initiative to strengthen voter education, improve media coordination, and maintain operational focus during high-volume elections. The program includes election-specific media kits, pre-election media briefings, and structured transparency measures that support public observation while protecting ballot security and chain of custody. Since 2024, the Board has conducted more than 150 media engagements, demonstrating the program’s consistency. This approach has improved reporting accuracy, reduced repetitive inquiries, strengthened relationships with local media, and enabled staff to balance public communication with core election responsibilities during peak periods.
Large Jurisdictions
Cook County Clerk’s Office, Illinois
Defenders of DA’mocracy
Recognizing the importance of investing in future civic leaders, Clerk Monica Gordon launched a High School Early Voting program for the 2026 gubernatorial election in Cook County, placing students at the center of real-world election operations as both election judges and voters. Developed in 2025 through a partnership with the Chicago Bears, the program engages students through a culturally relevant platform. Students from 24 suburban high schools were trained and certified to operate on-campus early voting sites, managing check-in, ballot processing, and equipment under supervision. The initiative builds civic confidence, demystifies election operations, and creates a pipeline of future election judges and engaged voters. With the Bears’ support amplifying outreach, the program shows how innovative partnerships can empower the next generation of civic leaders.
County of Santa Clara Registrar of Voters, California
Go Green: Turning a Mandate into Millions in Savings
Under California law, counties must mail every registered voter a County Voter Information Guide before major elections, though voters may opt for digital delivery. In Santa Clara County, this means about one million guides per election. The office transformed this requirement into a branded sustainability and cost savings campaign called Go Green. Through coordinated outreach, including social media, video, billboards, and community engagement, voters are encouraged to opt out of paper mailings. The results are significant. More than 62,000 voters have gone paperless, saving about $500,000 per election while reducing paper use, conserving resources, and delivering lasting environmental and fiscal benefits for each cycle.
Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, Ohio
Election Integrity Series
The Election Integrity Series is a nine-week educational initiative designed to build transparency, trust, and understanding around how elections are conducted and safeguarded. Created for voters, community groups, and the general public, the series explains the security measures in place at each stage of the election process. Topics include voter registration security and eligibility verification; vote-by-mail tracking, signature verification, and ballot protection; and 24/7 monitoring of the official ballot drop box. The series also covers voting equipment testing and logic and accuracy checks; secure ballot printing, storage, counting, and post-election audits; and physical and IT security measures used to protect election facilities and systems. Through clear explanations and educational resources, the series helps voters better understand how election integrity is maintained from start to finish.
State Level
Iowa Secretary of State’s Office
Virtual Interactive Polling Site Tour
As Iowa’s chief election official, Secretary of State Paul Pate prioritizes voter participation through education and outreach. As Secretary Pate traveled the state and spoke with new registered voters, he sensed a growing unease and nervousness about heading to the polls. To address voter uncertainty, the office developed an interactive virtual tour of a typical Iowa voting location, giving voters a clear sense of what to expect and building confidence in the process. The project also promotes transparency and trust in election security. In addition, the office supports youth engagement through initiatives such as the Carrie Chapman Catt Award program, which encourages high school student involvement. Together, these efforts help equip voters with the knowledge and confidence needed to participate in Iowa elections.
Office of the Idaho Secretary of State
12 Principles of Idaho Elections: A Statewide Commitment to Secure, Accessible, and Transparent Elections
In September 2024, ahead of the general election, Idaho’s Secretary of State and all 44 county clerks launched and signed the 12 Principles of Idaho Elections, a unified statewide commitment to accessibility, security, and accuracy. The initiative included a Capitol press event, an open letter to voters, and a plain language framework explaining safeguards from registration through post-election audits. Organized around three pillars, voting is easy, secure, and accurate. The program simplifies complex processes. By clearly explaining requirements and safeguards, it has strengthened transparency, reduced confusion, and built voter confidence while ensuring consistent messaging across counties in 2025 and beyond.
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Arizona Secretary of State
Arizona’s Online UOCAVA Portal: Modernizing the FPCA & FWAB Process for Military and Overseas Voters
Recognizing that military or overseas voters face unique challenges, Arizona modernized how military and overseas voters submit Federal Post Card Applications (FPCA) and Federal Write-In Absentee Ballots (FWAB) by creating a secure online portal through the Secretary of State’s website. The system allows voters to complete the entire process on their own devices. This includes signing forms and uploading documents, which are then sent directly to the appropriate county recorder. The new approach replaces a paper-based, fragmented system with a more efficient and accessible process. By reducing barriers and improving reliability, Arizona ensures these voters receive clear, consistent support and can confidently participate in the democratic process.
Durham County Board of Elections, North Carolina
UOCAVA Ballot Distribution Tool
The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) Ballot Distribution Tool was developed by the Durham County Board of Elections to make the process of mailing ballots to uniformed service members and overseas voters faster, more accurate, and efficient. This system integrates with the Durham County Board of Elections’ in-house Ballot Tracker Application, which is used to generate and send ballots to voters who request them, consistent with the law. By automating key steps, the tool reduces manual work for elections staff and minimizes the risk of communication errors. It also streamlines the email process for voters requesting ballots, ensuring timely notifications, and consistent messaging. Overall, the solution simplifies ballot distribution for a group of voters with specific needs while maintaining compliance and improving reliability. The solution ensures these voters experience a seamless and reliable method for receiving their ballots, reinforcing confidence in the integrity and accuracy of the voting process.
Prince William County Office of Elections, Virginia
PWC UOCAVA Connect
Prince William County’s UOCAVA program uses a dedicated database to track FPCA expirations and proactively communicate with military and overseas voters. The system identifies expiring or expired applications and sends targeted emails with situation-specific forms to renew, update status, or cancel. After processing, voters receive individualized email confirmations with key details such as status and expiration date. This approach replaces manual tracking with automated outreach, reducing errors, workload, and voter confusion. By providing timely reminders and faster confirmation through email, the program improves ballot access, strengthens reliability, and delivers clear, consistent customer service to a dedicated UOCAVA population. In addition, over the last two years, the office has received numerous emails from military or overseas voters, specifically thanking them for this extremely helpful service.
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Small Jurisdictions
Arlington County Office of Voter Registration, Virginia
Election Night Results Validation and Reporting Tool
The Arlington County Office of Voter Registration modernized Election Night reporting by replacing a five-step process. This was done through an electronic system using off-the-shelf technology and a real-time dashboard. Instead of multiple rounds of transcription, poll workers now enter results at the precinct. That data is made instantly available at the central office. Automated checks verify that votes cast match votes reported for each contest, and validated precincts are quickly marked as ready for publication and uploaded to the state system. If issues arise, the dashboard isolates the contest for rapid correction. This approach improves accuracy, reduces transcription errors, and ensures quick publication of secure results.
Douglas County Clerk, Kansas
Election Office Workflow Innovation Using Microsoft 365
Douglas County developed an innovative solution using existing Microsoft 365 applications to manage advanced voting applications and ballot cure processes under Kansas law. The system centralizes tracking of application errors and signature deficiencies, allowing staff to efficiently document, monitor, and resolve issues during high-volume election periods. By replacing fragmented, manual workflows with a tailored, low-cost approach, the county reduces the risk of misplaced requests and improves consistency. This solution avoids reliance on expensive, partial vendor tools while leveraging familiar technology. As a result, the program saves staff time, strengthens accuracy, and improves overall administration of advance voting.
Humboldt County Office of Elections, California
Address Assignment Audit
The Office of Elections developed a low-cost precinct auditing program using simple tools as an alternative to expensive mapping software. The process checks voter addresses in two steps: first, using a free Census tool and then a Google tool to identify potential errors. Staff review groups flagged addresses using printed maps and parcel records to confirm and correct precinct assignments. This approach helps ensure voters receive the correct ballots while keeping costs low and avoiding the need for specialized staff. A web app was also created so that other jurisdictions can upload address lists and boundary files to identify potential issues for review.
Medium Jurisdictions
Ada County Elections, Idaho
Ballot Verifier
In April 2024, Ada County Elections launched the Ballot Verifier, an interactive online platform that increases transparency and public trust in the voting process. Available on the county’s website, the tool allows users to view ballot images and cast-vote records for all elections since 2022 without submitting a public records request. Voters can review data, confirm how ballots are counted, and conduct their own “citizen count.” By providing free, direct access to detailed election data, the Ballot Verifier improves understanding and strengthens confidence in election results while supporting more efficient and transparent election administration.
Henrico Voter Registration & Elections, General Registrar, Virginia
Alternate Ballot County Database (ABCD)
Used during the November 2025 General Election, the provisional tracking system helped staff manage same-day registration and provisional ballots across 90 precincts. The system tracked more than 1,600 ballots from early voting and Election Day, making it easier to review voter information and prepare recommendations for the Electoral Board. Built by the county’s IT team using an existing system, it follows the same format as the state provisional envelope for easy data entry. It also uses mapping tools to check voter addresses. The system sorts ballots into valid and invalid groups, improving accuracy, saving time, and helping staff make decisions more efficiently.
Pierce County Elections, Washington
Rebuilding Ballot Drop Box Chain of Custody
Pierce County Elections implemented a new in-house system to manage ballot drop box chains of custody, improving ballot tracking, accuracy, and accountability across 51 locations. Developed with the county’s IT department in just 80 days after a vendor discontinued critical software before the August 2025 primary election, the system was ready in time for the election. It provides real-time tracking, better documentation, and stronger audit readiness, enhancing transparency and ballot security. The system also reduces errors, simplifies training, automates routine tasks, and improves oversight by giving supervisors clear visibility into collection activity, strengthening both efficiency and voter confidence.
Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections, Florida
The Logic & Accuracy Show: Turning Compliance into Choreography
The Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections redesigned its public Logic and Accuracy test by creating a detailed run of show that coordinates logistics, programming, ballot tabulation, and meeting facilitation in a single, structured workflow. Reimagining the program as a staged production, staff refined timing, roles, and sequencing to ensure a smooth and consistent public process. This approach transforms a complex requirement into a clear, repeatable presentation that highlights accuracy and professionalism. The improved process reduces staff confusion, strengthens preparation, and enhances transparency for observers and canvassing board members. Through a performance at a public forum, canvassing board members and observers experienced a more transparent, predictable process, strengthening their confidence in the office’s operations and elections in general.
Large/State Level Jurisdictions
Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office, Florida
Clerk’s Election Dashboard
The Clerk’s Election Dashboard modernizes voting location operations by replacing paper-based processes with a single, integrated digital system used across 239 Election Day locations and 27 early voting sites. The platform supports real-time status updates, wait-time reporting, staff management, poll watcher check-in, and access to forms and resources. Built with low-code technology, it is secure, cost-effective, and adaptable. Clerks were trained through practical simulations to ensure readiness. Started in 2024 and used today, the results were immediate and measurable: Setup confirmation for all Election Day voting locations was completed more than an hour earlier than in previous cycles, data entry errors were reduced through guided digital forms, and the elections office gained real-time operational insight that enabled faster issue resolution and allowed targeted support.
Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office, Florida
Regional Technician Application
The Regional Technician Application is a digital tool designed to modernize support for in-person voting operations. It replaces paper-based reporting and fragmented communication with a mobile platform that integrates real-time communication, standardized workflows, and clear accountability. The system embeds trained field technicians directly into voting location operations, improving coordination between the field and central office. The program provides real-time visibility into conditions on the ground. This approach improves responsiveness, accuracy, and continuity during critical voting periods.
Office of the Idaho Secretary of State
Transparent by Design: Idaho’s Interactive Election Data Initiative
The Idaho Secretary of State’s Data and Dashboards initiative provides interactive, public-facing tools that make election and campaign finance data easy to access and understand. Available on VoteIdaho.gov, the dashboards present voter trends, campaign spending, and registration data in clear visual formats. Launched in 2024 and used throughout 2025 and today, the tools are regularly updated and widely used by voters and media, including during election night coverage. With 11 active dashboards and strong user engagement, the program increases transparency, enhances available information, and improves efficiency by limiting routine data requests while allowing the public to explore verified information independently.
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Guam Election Commission, Guam
Homebound Voting Services
The Guam Election Commission’s Homebound Voting Services program delivers election services directly to voters across the island’s scenic and widely dispersed communities, ensuring private and independent access for those unable to travel due to age, illness, or disability. Since 2014, the program has provided voters access to the electoral process. Trained officials conduct in-home visits in private residences, care facilities, and medical settings across all 19 villages, providing registration and ballot services. This personalized approach allows voters to participate in familiar surroundings, promoting dignity and confidence. The program strengthens ballot tracking and security and ensures that even the most remote and vulnerable populations remain fully engaged in the democratic process.
Lake County Supervisor of Elections, Florida
Accessible Ballots
The election office’s accessible ballot program provides a fully compliant remote ballot marking system that works with screen readers, magnification, voice navigation, and alternative input devices. This allows voters with disabilities to mark ballots privately and independently using their own technology. The program also improves ballot-return accessibility, closing a common gap in absentee voting. Since implementation, absentee ballot use among voters with disabilities has increased by 38%, with many voters reporting they voted privately and independently for the first time. By combining accessible ballot marking with user-friendly return materials, the program strengthens confidence, protects privacy, and expands access to voting.
Santa Fe County Clerk’s Office, New Mexico
Voting Without Barriers: Santa Fe County
The Santa Fe County Clerk’s Office launched a three-part accessibility initiative. First, the Accessible Voting in Santa Fe County website features American Sign Language videos explaining in-person voting and available accommodations. Second, detailed site guides for each voting location provide photos and clear directions from parking to entry. Third, a Disability Access Advisory Board, established in 2025, ensures improvements are guided by lived experience and identifies potential gaps. Together, these tools help voters plan ahead and reduce uncertainty. For election officials, the program improves consistency, reduces last-minute issues, and creates a feedback loop to identify and address barriers.
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City of Henderson, Nevada
Operation Ballot Box
Operation Ballot Box is a cross-departmental election security initiative strengthening coordination between the City of Henderson Clerk’s Office, Emergency Management, and other local, county, and state partners. Through joint planning, tabletop exercises, and pre-election assessments, participating agencies aligned roles, communication protocols, and response strategies. This collaborative approach allowed teams to identify and address gaps in physical security, operational continuity, communications, and voter safety before Election Day. By integrating multiple offices into a unified plan and conducting coordinated exercises, the program strengthens preparedness and ensures all partners can respond effectively. The result is a more secure and resilient voting environment, with improved confidence and reduced operational risk.
Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections, Florida
Real-Time Transmission Oversight for the Modern Election Administration
The Election Night Transmission Monitoring Dashboard is an in-house tool that simplifies how the county tracks results from up to 377 voting locations. Instead of relying on phone calls and spreadsheets, the system automatically processes transmission data and updates a live map. Staff can quickly see which locations have sent results, which are incomplete, and which need help. This gives everyone a clear, real-time view of election night activity. The dashboard reduces manual work, improves communication, and allows staff to focus on solving issues. In addition, the system was built entirely with existing tools and staff expertise, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution that many jurisdictions could adopt. The dashboard improves overall election processes, provides more accurate reporting, and offers a smoother, less stressful experience for both staff and voters.
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Small/Medium Jurisdictions
Greenwich Registrar of Voters, Connecticut
Poll Worker Training
Inspired by the Election Assistance Commission’s Election Scenario Test Deck, this program created poll worker flashcards both as a training tool and a practical keepsake. Using a Google Gemini tool loaded with official materials, about 150 voting location questions and answers were generated and refined into a final set of 52 cards. Designed for quick, independent review, the cards reinforce common roles and scenarios, so in-person training can focus on more complex topics. The end product was well-received by poll workers. Each poll worker was presented with a set of cards if they were working during early voting or at their scheduled training class. Poll workers were observed quizzing each other during slow periods of early voting or on Election Day. The result is a simple, engaging tool that strengthens knowledge and retention.
Greenwich Registrar of Voters, Connecticut
Polling Place Food Sponsorship Program
The Polling Place Food Sponsorship Program is a public-private partnership through which local food service businesses provide meals to poll workers during Election Day and early voting. In return, sponsors are recognized in signs at voting locations, through various media outlets, and by community communications. Strong participation led to the expansion of the program to include coffee and baked goods during early voting. Deliveries were coordinated with voting location leaders to ensure timely service. A local newspaper also highlighted the program in a dedicated article and thanked participating businesses. Periodic town email updates reinforced local recognition. The program boosted poll worker morale, strengthened community ties, and highlighted local business support for elections.
Large/State Level Jurisdictions
Broward County Supervisor of Elections Office, Florida
Zelle Yeah! Electronic Pay for Election Workers
The Broward County Supervisor of Elections modernized poll worker pay by moving from paper checks to electronic payments through Zelle. The disbursement of funds has been a frequent topic of discussion, with poll workers requesting more expedited payment methods. Earlier efforts introduced same-day pay, but paper checks often had to be voided due to no shows or assignment changes, resulting in about 4,800 voided checks and roughly $65,000 in fees between 2019 and 2022. In 2024, the office implemented countywide electronic payments for about 5,000 poll workers. This approach maintains timely compensation while reducing administrative work, cutting costs, and eliminating follow-up issues tied to paper checks. This creates a faster and more efficient payment process, and the office plans to further utilize this payment method in the future.
South Carolina Election Commission
Escape the SEC Classroom: A Digital Escape Room for Certified Clerk Training
The South Carolina State Election Commission developed “Escape the SEC Classroom,” a digital escape room used to review key topics in the Certified Poll Clerk Program before the final assessment. The interactive program reinforces important Election Day procedures through immersive, scenario-based challenges. Poll clerks move through three stages covering topics such as de-escalation, provisional ballots, chain of custody, equipment use, emergency response, and curbside voting. Each task requires applying rules and procedures to unlock the next room, encouraging understanding through participation rather than memorization. By simulating real situations in an engaging virtual format, the program builds confidence, strengthens accountability, improves accuracy, and better prepares poll clerks for Election Day.
South Carolina Election Commission
Setting up the Polling Place — Hands On Activity
South Carolina’s polling place program uses hands-on scenarios to strengthen poll worker recruitment, training, and retention. Participants work with five realistic polling place layouts based on common locations across South Carolina. By using scaled visuals of equipment, furniture, and signage to design setups that meet ADA requirements, follow state law, and support smooth voter flow, the interactive format promotes teamwork, problem-solving, and practical application. A gallery walk allows participants to review each layout and ask questions. This approach builds confidence, improves consistency, and helps poll workers create accessible, efficient polling places, leading to enhanced operations and a better overall experience for voters.
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Charleston County Board of Voter Registration and Elections, South Carolina
Fueling a Future of Civic Engagement: Charleston County Elections’ College Program
This initiative is a two-year partnership between Charleston County Elections and the College of Charleston. It introduces students to election administration through coursework, hands-on training, and service as poll workers. Students learn key election processes, support recruitment and training, and work on Election Day. A paid internship expands outreach through peer marketing and social media. The program strengthens the poll worker pipeline, increases student participation, and builds long-term civic involvement. It helps ensure voting locations are fully staffed and support smoother Election Day operations. The initiative is funded through the Election Assistance Commission’s Help America Vote College Program.
Pierce County Elections, Washington
Bringing Transparency to Elections: A Video Series of the Ballot Process
Utilizing Help America Vote Act funding, Pierce County Elections produced a seven-part video series that has already generated nearly 30,000 views. The short videos give voters a behind-the-scenes look at how ballots are handled, counted, and secured. Inspired by the Election Assistance Commission’s (EAC) guidance, the series serves as an ongoing education tool to reduce confusion, build understanding, and further trust. By clearly demonstrating election procedures, the videos improve understanding of ballot safeguards and increase transparency. Some viewers even visited the Elections Center after being informed that observation was allowed. For Pierce County staff, the series provides a consistent, reusable resource that continues to improve communication and efficiency.
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Fairfax County Office of Elections, Virginia
No Time to Freeze: Empowering Poll Workers with Clear, Accessible Evacuation Guides
After unexpected power outages left multiple voting locations operating without electricity, this program created a centralized Election Day Information Tracker to improve contingency planning and emergency response. Built using Airtable, the system provides real-time visibility into voting location conditions, linking locations to poll workers, emergency contacts, backup sites, and active issues. Staff can quickly log incidents, monitor statuses, and coordinate responses across all locations, reducing delays and confusion during rapidly evolving situations. The program replaces paper records and individual tracking with a single, shared system. Overall, it helps maintain continuous and reliable voting during unexpected emergencies.
Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, California
From Fire Impact to Ballot Access: A Data-Driven Outreach Initiative
Following the 2025 Los Angeles County wildfires, 88,000 registered voters lived in areas where mail delivery became unreliable or impossible. Entire neighborhoods no longer functioned as valid mailing addresses, yet these voters remained eligible to participate in the state’s special election. Standard election processes rely on deliverable addresses, and repeated undeliverable mail can trigger inactivity procedures. To address this, LA County Elections launched a contingency outreach effort focused on maintaining ballot access. Using emergency perimeter data, geospatial matching, and targeted outreach, staff identified affected voters and maintained contact until a workable ballot delivery method was confirmed. As a result, 24,000 displaced voters successfully received and returned ballots who might otherwise have lost practical access to voting.
Maricopa County Elections, Arizona
Coordinated Cross-Agency Partnerships for Election Day Resilience
Maricopa County Elections (MCE) has developed a comprehensive Election Day resilience program built on coordinated cross-agency partnerships and real-time response. Unlike traditional models, this approach embeds external partners directly into operations. On Election Day, election staff work in a centralized Command Center alongside law enforcement, emergency management, state partners, and nonpartisan organizations. These partners are trained in advance and can respond immediately when issues arise. This structure supports rapid assessment and deployment while prioritizing voter access, ballot security, and safety. The program reduces disruptions, strengthens coordination, and helps ensure voting continues smoothly during emergencies or unexpected challenges. As a result, MCE has minimized vote center downtime and avoided closures during incidents, all while maintaining consistent operations across locations.
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Small/Medium Jurisdictions
Arlington County Office of Voter Registration and Elections, Virginia
Special Edition Halloween “I Voted” Stickers
Each year, the Arlington County Office of Voter Registration and Elections turns the busiest week of early voting into a more engaging and enjoyable experience by embracing the Halloween season. With the holiday arriving just before the November general election, staff and poll workers often assist voters while dressed in costume. To build on this excitement, the county introduced a limited-edition Halloween “I Voted” sticker for the 2024 presidential election, with plans to continue the tradition for the 2025 gubernatorial election. The design utilizes the standard Arlington “I Voted” sticker as a foundation, incorporating minor changes to give it a festive, spooky flair. The 2024 version featured a circular design with a rainbow gradient background, a dark city skyline silhouette, and bats flying overhead. The words “I VOTED” appeared in large, dripping-style letters, while “Arlington” was repeated in smaller text at the bottom. By keeping production quantities limited and distributing the stickers exclusively on Halloween, the office managed costs while creating a unique, highly anticipated collector’s item that added a spark of wicked fun to the voting experience.
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Cowlitz County Elections, Washington
“I Voted” Stickers — Voter Engagement & Outreach
Cowlitz County Elections launched the “Rooted in Democracy” campaign in early 2025 to boost turnout and instill voter confidence. The team crafted localized stickers distributed at the office during the 18-day voting period, and at outreach events.
The first design is the “Rooted in Democracy” sticker, featuring a stylized tree with visible roots and "Est. 1854" text. The second design, "Franks 4 Voting," shows a cartoon hot dog character on a red poster-style graphic. The third design is a sophisticated "I Voted" badge with gold accents and a star marking the county on a Washington state map. The fourth design features a smiling taco character with the phrase “Let’s Taco ’Bout Making Your Vote Count.” The fifth design is a “Future Voter” sticker showing diverse children in superhero costumes with the slogan “Voting is my Superpower.” Finally, the sixth design is a yellow "Voting Vibes Only" sticker decorated with a smiling daisy and pink text.
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Fredericksburg Office of Voter Registration and Elections, Virginia
“I Voted” Sticker Contest
The City of Fredericksburg launched its inaugural sticker design contest to engage the community and celebrate local identity. Residents were invited to submit original artwork across three categories: “I Voted,” “First Time Voter,” and “Future Voter.” After a panel of community leaders selected three finalists per category, residents cast their votes online to determine the winners. The program was promoted through the official elections website, press releases, and city social media channels.
The first design, the "I Voted" winner, features a patriotic circular layout with a blue star-studded top, a white skyline silhouette, and a red bottom section. The second design, for first-time voters, displays a green background with a charming otter wearing a patriotic top hat and red bow tie. The third design is an oval "Future Voter" sticker depicting a peaceful outdoor scene with trees, a small bridge, and a winding stream. These community-led designs foster civic pride and provide voters of all ages with a unique connection to their city.
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Wyandotte County Election Office, Kansas
“I Voted” Sticker Design Contest
In 2025, the Wyandotte County Election Office launched its first-ever “I Voted” Sticker Design Contest to connect students to the democratic process through art and public recognition. High schoolers were invited to design the county’s official sticker, while a parallel “Future Voter” category engaged younger students. The program aimed to connect students directly to the election process through civic-themed art, public recognition, and real-world participation.
The inaugural contest generated more than 30 entries from across Wyandotte County, leading to a one-of-a-kind, student-created sticker for the 2025 election cycle. This initiative extended the students’ work far beyond the classroom and into the broader civic community. The winning design features a forward-facing brown bison centered within a circular frame, bordered by vibrant agricultural symbols including an ear of corn, wheat stalks, and a bright sunflower against a blue sky. The word “VOTED” is displayed in bold white letters at the bottom.
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Large Level Jurisdictions
Ada County Elections, Idaho
Ada County’s 2025 Sasquatch “I Voted”
Capitalizing on the legendary creature’s status as an Idaho cultural icon, Ada County introduced the "sasquatch" to its 2025 election materials to boost voter turnout and engagement. Voters were charged with finding hidden depictions of the “sasquatch” across the elections process. While sightings of the mysterious figure are famously rare, thousands of voters spotted the creature at voting locations and on mail ballots throughout the 2025 election cycle. This creative approach turned a routine civic duty into a local hunt for the elusive "Gem State" resident.
The sticker design is a circular "I Voted" sticker featuring a bold red and dark blue color scheme with large white text. Centered beneath the "I VOTED" heading are the words "ADA COUNTY" and "2025," all set against a subtle, dark Sasquatch silhouette graphic in the background. To further integrate this theme into the election process, Ada County also introduced a new ballot watermark featuring the same sasquatch silhouette to match the sticker.
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Jefferson County Clerk & Recorder, Colorado
The Sweet Smell of Democracy
To revitalize interest in an odd-year election, Jefferson County tapped into voter nostalgia by launching the nation’s first-ever scratch-and-sniff “I Voted” sticker. The project began as a youth engagement activity where students voted on scent swatches to define “the smell of democracy.” The winning fragrance is a complex blend described as sweet, spicy, and outdoorsy. It inspired a bilingual campaign that successfully boosted in-person turnout and garnered national media attention from outlets like Yahoo! News.
The design is a circular sticker featuring a Jefferson County ballot drop box nestled in a vibrant field of wildflowers under a rising sun. The top of the sticker displays the bilingual phrase “I Voted! ¡Yo Voté!” while the right side features the Gen X-inspired tagline, “I love the smell of democracy in the morning.” Voters offered diverse interpretations of the scent, comparing it to everything from “grandma’s house” to “earthy” tones. By turning a standard badge into a sensory experience, Jefferson County achieved the highest ballot return rate in the state and sparked a community-wide conversation about the democratic process.
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Snohomish County Elections, Washington
From Shore to Summit: Snohomish County “I Voted” Sticker Series
Defined by its connection between the Salish Sea and the Cascade Range, Snohomish County launched a diverse “I Voted” sticker series to reflect the region's unique landscapes and traditions. Rather than using a single image, the collection celebrates the county’s rich identity through custom designs highlighting rural farmlands, urban centers, and maritime heritage. Rooted in inclusion, the series aims to make civic participation more relatable and connected to the places voters call home.
The series features several distinct designs that showcase the county’s landmarks. The first design features a fire lookout tower atop a mountain at sunset with a peregrine falcon in flight. The second design captures the Everett skyline behind a shoreline and a passing train. The third design highlights a historic red railroad bridge over a blue river with evergreen mountains in the background. The fourth design showcases the region’s aviation influence with an airplane flying over patchwork farmland and barns. The fifth design features the Mukilteo Lighthouse along a shoreline with snowcapped mountains and a sailboat. The sixth design, developed with cultural guidance from a local Indigenous tribe, depicts four people paddling a traditional cedar canoe. Finally, the seventh design features a large white ferry traveling across Puget Sound.
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