Empowering Voters, One Election at a Time

In the lead-up to November's election, Idaho is taking steps to ensure that every voter has confidence in the process. From updated online tools to rigorous testing of voting machines, officials are working tirelessly to make elections more accessible and secure. At the heart of it all is a commitment to transparency and integrity, driven by those who understand the importance of informed decision-making. Voter education is a top priority for Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane, who hopes that new online tools will empower voters to make more informed choices. These tools, available on voteidaho. gov, provide critical information on how to register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and view a sample ballot – ensuring that every voter has the knowledge they need to participate in the democratic process. Despite the excitement surrounding presidential elections, local issues and candidates often fly under the radar for voters. McGrane emphasizes the importance of staying informed about the issues and candidates on the ballot, saying that this is crucial for making truly informed decisions as a voter. In Kootenai County, county clerk Jennifer Locke is leading efforts to ensure that every vote cast in the county is counted and kept secure – from before the election through its aftermath. This includes rigorous testing of voting machines, as well as measures to prevent deceased or incapacitated voters from receiving ballots. Locke's dedication to her role has earned praise from McGrane, who notes that officials like Locke are working behind the scenes to ensure voter confidence in the process. Asa Gray, Kootenai County elections manager, is also part of this team, and together they're striving to break records for voter turnout on November 5.