During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the management and oversight of local elections, particularly focusing on the qualifications of the current election board leader, Bob Page. A speaker criticized Page's appointment, arguing that his background in religion and communications does not equip him to handle the complexities of a high-tech cybersecurity data management system used for elections, which they likened to the standards expected in banking.
The speaker emphasized the importance of transparency and compliance in the electoral process, referencing Harry Howery, a co-author of the Help America Vote Act of 2002. They urged board members to familiarize themselves with Howery's insights, particularly regarding the lack of material compliance with the act over the past two decades. The speaker highlighted that certifiers continue to approve elections despite these compliance issues, which they deemed a violation of federal law.
The discussion underscored the necessity for elections to be fully transparent and auditable, aligning with established legal frameworks. The speaker concluded by urging the board to take the management of elections seriously and to consider the risks associated with uncertifiable election processes.