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Resource Elections Defined Video Series

Updated June 12, 2024
Related Topic: Elections

This series of short videos features NCSL Director of Elections and Redistricting Wendy Underhill talking about some of the key steps of election administration you may not have heard of—from ballot curing to voter list maintenance to what it means to be a poll worker, and everything in between.

Your Guide to Understanding US Election Processes

Have questions about how U.S. elections work? NCSL has answers. Learn about this video series that answers key questions surrounding elections administration.

Watch the video: Understanding US Election Processes

The Process of Ballot Duplication

Election professionals use the phrase ballot duplication to refer to a process for making sure even damaged ballots can be counted. Call it duplication, replication or even reproduction—remaking ballots guarantees that every ballot is counted.

Watch the video: Ballot Duplication

Ballot Collection Laws

Ballot collecting is the formal phrase for what’s sometimes referred to as ballot harvesting. Specifically, ballot collecting refers to laws that permit someone other than the voter to return a voted ballot on the voter’s behalf.

Watch the video: Ballot Collection

Ballot Curing Provides Safeguard

Well over half the states provide ballot curing for absentee or mail ballots. This process allows voters to fix mistakes and lets election officials check up on any ballots that didn’t pass muster.

Watch the video: Ballot Curing

Voting With Provisional Ballots

Provisional ballots are kept sealed and separated from other ballots with voter information on the outside envelope until officials can investigate. 

Watch the video: Provisional Ballots

The Purpose of Pre-Processing Ballots

Each state has its own law on when processing can begin. Most states, and especially those with a high volume of absentee voting, allow pre-processing to begin before Election Day.

Watch the video: Pre-Processing Ballots

The Roles of Poll Workers vs. Poll Watchers

It’s easy to confuse poll workers with poll watchers. Here's an explanation. 

Watch the video: Poll Workers vs. Poll Watchers

Post-Election Audits Allow for Spot-Checks

State law determines exactly what kind of post-election audit is used well before an election takes place.

Watch the video: Post-Election Audits

Canvassing and Certification of Ballots

In most states, a local canvassing board reviews and confirms election results.  

Watch the video: Canvassing and Certification

A Closer Look at Results Reporting

When polls close, it’s exciting to know who won and who lost. However, it takes time to count all the ballots. 

Watch the video: Results Reporting

Tackling Voter ID Laws

When voters show up to vote, how do election workers know they are who they say they are? 

Watch the video: Voter ID Laws

A Look at Voter Registration List Maintenance

Good list maintenance helps with efficiency and accuracy throughout the election process.

Watch the video: Voter Registration List Maintenance
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Related Resources

NCSL Election Resources

The NCSL elections team provides a variety of resources on election issues, including but not limited to 50-state surveys on state laws, legislation databases, a monthly elections newsletter, enactment summaries and other publications.
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How to Run for the State Legislature

To become a candidate for state legislature, individuals must meet eligibility requirements and file paperwork. In some states, potential candidates must also complete petitions and pay filing fees to get on the ballot.
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