Election Assistance Commission Faces Operational Challenges

Why it matters locally: The operational challenges facing the Election Assistance Commission could impact the support and guidance available to Indiana's state and local election officials, such as those in the Indiana Election Division or county election boards, as they manage voter registration, voting machine certification, and election security protocols.

Washington—Efforts to prepare for elections often require months or years. State and local jurisdictions manage these preparations, from voter registration to voting machine maintenance, with federal government support. Thomas Hicks, who previously served on the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), characterized the agency as effectively unable to function in its current capacity. The EAC provides assistance for these election preparations. Geoff Bennett spoke with Hicks regarding the agency's current status.