Category: Outstanding Innovations in Elections ‐ Large Jurisdictions
Data Driven Solutions for Managing Voter Population Growth
Whether a jurisdiction is small or large, it is vital that polling places can accommodate voter registration growth. In North Carolina, a precinct split is recommended when the number of voters assigned to a polling place exceeds its capacity to process voters efficiently and effectively. To determine which precincts should be split without involving individual preferences or political bias, Wake County has developed a three-part precinct split system derived solely from data analysis. For each precinct, information is gathered on voter registration, Election Day turnout, and projected voter population. The precincts that rank the highest in two or more of the categories are presented to the 5-member bipartisan Board for consideration. Using this streamlined, data-driven methodology to determine precinct splits ensures the process is evaluated fairly and creates transparency by simplifying the method with a straightforward, replicable formula.
