Letter to Editor | Protecting your vote

||| FROM HEATHER LEE FOR COUNTY AUDITOR |||

Many people have shared their concerns about election security with me and how election officials can address those concerns. I believe the biggest issues are cybersecurity, ballot security, chain of custody, staffing, and misinformation.

My approach would be to be proactive-review our security procedures, make sure ballots are properly tracked and secured, maintain strong cybersecurity, and make sure staff are trained and prepared for unexpected situations.

I also believe we should learn from other counties. I’ve connected with the Thurston County Auditor’s office to learn about their work and recognition in election security and what practices we might be able to apply here.

Most importantly, I want the process to be transparent. People should be able to understand how their elections are conducted and have confidence that the proper safeguards are in place.

The federal government has a role in protecting voting rights, enforcing federal law, and providing resources and cybersecurity support. But elections in Washington are administered under Washington state law by our local election officials.

I think the relationship should be cooperative, but with clear boundaries. We should use federal resources and expertise when appropriate while keeping local election administration where it belongs. Learn more about my goals and priorities at heatherleeforauditor.com.