Beyond Turnout: The Election Administrators' Institutional Capacity Question and Developing Voter Education Programs
Michael McDonald, a political scientist, compiled data showing that voter turnout in the U.S. averages 59 percent in presidential elections and 42 percent in midterms. In some local jurisdictions, turnout can be as low as 10 to 25 percent. These figures signal a call to action for policymakers and, especially, election administrators, who play a critical frontline role in fostering voter participation. The Help America Vote Act of 2002 provides a foundation by requiring states to establish voter education and outreach programs and to measure their effectiveness. These efforts are designed to strengthen civil society and protect the integrity of representative democracy.
Educating voters is complex, requiring administrators to plan carefully, engage stakeholders and design performance metrics. But the real challenge goes beyond planning and implementation. At the outset, administrators must ask a critical question: Do we have the institutional capacity to create voter education programs that meaningfully increase voter awareness and participation?
To maximize the chances of success, election administrators should focus on four essential institutional capabilities:
- Adaptive Skills: Prepare teams and the organization to embrace new responsibilities and challenges.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Compile voter turnout and demographic data to understand voter behavior and tailor education programs.
- Cross-Sector Collaboration: Build networks and partnerships with nonprofits, civic organizations and private-sector actors to strengthen program reach and efficiency.
- Performance Measurement: Establish clear metrics to assess program outcomes and inform future planning.
https://patimes.org/beyond-turnout-the-election-administrators-institutional-capacity-question-and-developing-voter-education-programs/