Sean Drasher, Lebanon County’s elections director, reflects on the challenges and successes of the 2024 election cycle, including managing a chaotic early voting process and recruiting students as poll workers. He highlights the importance of early planning for the forthcoming municipal elections and encourages community engagement in local offices.
Sean Drasher, the elections director for Lebanon County, began his career in election administration after successfully running for the role of Judge of Elections in his precinct a decade ago. On December 19, 2023, he reflected on his experience managing the chaotic 2024 presidential election during an interview with WITF. Although he relished the thrill and adrenaline of the election period, he acknowledged the overwhelming nature of the work, especially during the four weeks leading up to Election Day.
Drasher noted that many counties operate with limited election staff, which increases the workload on individuals who must manage voter rolls, set up equipment, and facilitate the voting process under considerable pressure. This scarcity of resources raises concerns regarding staff retention, as many workers in the field are driven by a sense of patriotism.
A positive aspect of the recent election was Drasher’s discovery that 10% of poll workers were students, eliciting admiration from both the staff and the public. Despite this success, he identified early voting in Pennsylvania as a significant challenge, citing its disorganized nature and the frustration it causes for voters who expect a quicker process. The influx of voters often leads to excessively long wait times, a reflection that may unfairly tarnish the image of the county’s preparedness.
Looking forward, Drasher has begun preparations for the upcoming municipal elections, scheduled for May 20. He explained that local elections are complex due to the multitude of candidates involved, many of whom lack experience navigating the necessary paperwork. Thus, it is crucial to initiate planning early to ensure a well-organized election.
Drasher encouraged community members to consider participating in local elections. He emphasized that numerous positions are available and that interested individuals should prepare their candidacy paperwork in January for the opportunity to gain civic engagement experience. He reiterated that even unpaid positions can serve as stepping stones to more significant roles.
The article highlights the intricate dynamics of election administration in the United States. It provides a firsthand account of Sean Drasher, Lebanon County’s elections director, who shares insights regarding the challenges and successes of managing elections. Through his narrative, the article emphasizes the importance of early planning, adequate staffing, and community involvement in the electoral process, particularly focusing on the upcoming municipal elections.
In conclusion, Sean Drasher’s reflections on the 2024 presidential election process underscore both the challenges faced by election officials and the triumphs of engaging community members as poll workers. As the Lebanon County elections director, he advocates for proactive participation in local elections and stresses the need for improvement in the early voting process. Through his leadership, Drasher aims to enhance the electoral experience for voters while preparing for the critical upcoming municipal elections.
Original Source: www.witf.org
