Press releases

States United and Issue One Launch Project to Uplift Women Election Officials During the 2024 Election Season

New Video “Behind the Scenes” Focuses on the Role of Women in Our Democracy; 80 Percent of Election Officials Are Women


Media Contact

Cory Combs

Director of Media Relations

The States United Democracy Center (SUDC) and Issue One today launched a six-figure digital effort to recognize and build support for women election officials heading into November and during the post-election period. The effort aims to educate voters on the essential contributions these officials make to our free, fair, and secure elections. Research shows that 80 percent of election officials are women.

“Our election officials are heroes,” said Joanna Lydgate, CEO of States United. “This is an incredible group of professionals — the majority of whom are women — dedicated to serving the voters in their communities. And they’re being asked to contend with so much right now, including threats, harassment and disinformation. Just for doing their jobs. This election season, we’re honoring their dedication and commitment. Our democracy is only as strong as our support for the women who protect it.”

“Women election officials are the backbone of our democracy, yet they are often the unsung heroes,” said Carah Ong Whaley, Vice President, Election Protection at Issue One.  “As we approach another crucial election, it’s vital that we recognize their resilience, dedication, and the personal risks they face just to ensure our voices are heard. This campaign is about uplifting and protecting these extraordinary women who safeguard the integrity of our elections despite constant challenges. Their commitment is unwavering, and it’s time we show them the support and appreciation they truly deserve.”

 

The launch includes a new video, “Behind the Scenes”, that emphasizes the critical, yet often unrecognized, roles women play in voting and democracy. The video taps into a sense of pride, honor and civic duty while highlighting the hard work these election workers provide every election season. The video will run in key counties in at least seven states throughout the election season: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

The joint effort by States United and Issue One offers ways for people to show support for election officials where they live and nationwide, including signing a pledge committing to speaking out against harassment of election officials. For more information, check out: www.howelectionswork.org/women.