New Hampshire Secretary of State Set for New Term Amidst Election Innovations and Controversies
CONCORD, NH – Newly re-elected New Hampshire Secretary of State Dave Scanlan is eager to finalize a series of technological advancements aimed at improving the state’s election processes. After facing no opposition in his bid for a second two-year term, Scanlan highlighted his previous two years’ efforts to modernize electronic databases and introduce new ballot counting devices.
"Our team has completed much of the substantial groundwork, and we’re gearing up to transition polling locations to updated equipment," Scanlan stated. The upgrades come as officials seek to reduce long wait times at polling places, which have drawn criticism in recent elections. Though he acknowledged that significant turnout often leads to lines, Scanlan is committed to addressing inefficiencies where voters wait over an hour.
In addition to focusing on equipment, Scanlan emphasized outreach initiatives aimed at underrepresented populations, including veterans, students, and minority communities. His goal is to foster civic engagement through programs encouraging residents to become poll workers, ultimately educating the public about election processes.
Despite his re-election, Scanlan faced backlash from the progressive advocacy group 603 Forward, which has criticized his support for stricter voter registration measures, labeling him "anti-voter." Scanlan dismissed these claims, stating, “In New Hampshire, we’ve made voting easy while ensuring that participants are qualified.”
A critical element of his role involves safeguarding the state’s historic status as home to the first-in-the-nation presidential primary. This year, despite changes to the Democratic National Committee’s primary calendar, Scanlan affirmed New Hampshire’s commitment to uphold its primary tradition as mandated by state law, scheduling the next primary for January 23, 2024.
As the political landscape evolves, Scanlan anticipates heightened attention on New Hampshire from presidential candidates, reinforcing its significance in the election process. "New Hampshire remains a key battleground for those with presidential aspirations," he concluded.
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