Challenges and Triumphs: Lebanon County’s Election Director Discusses Recent Elections

Sean Drasher, Lebanon County’s election director, discussed the challenges and successes faced during the 2024 presidential election, emphasizing overtime work and the positive role of student poll workers. He addressed concerns over the inefficiency of early voting in Pennsylvania and outlined the complexities involved in preparing for the upcoming municipal elections on May 20, while encouraging community members to consider candidacy for local offices.

In a recent interview with WITF, Sean Drasher, Lebanon County’s elections director, shared insights from his decade-long journey in election administration, which began as a candidate for the Judge of Elections. Reflecting on the challenges of the 2024 presidential election, he described how the last month before the election was particularly demanding, filled with overtime and intensive work. Drasher expressed a fondness for the adrenaline rush associated with the election, but acknowledged the strain felt by his staff and other counties with limited resources.

Despite the challenges, Drasher highlighted a notable success during the election: the involvement of students as poll workers, which positively impacted the public’s experience. He noted concerns regarding early voting experiences in Pennsylvania, pointing out that the process can be inefficient and cumbersome, which he believes detracts from the overall impression of their election preparedness.

Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for May 20. Drasher explained that managing the logistics for local elections can be complicated, as many candidates may be unfamiliar with the election process. Therefore, swift and organized planning is essential.

Drasher encouraged community members interested in running for office to consider their options, emphasizing the accessibility of local candidacy and the potential for civic involvement. He reassured potential candidates that the procedure for getting on the ballot is not particularly stringent, promoting civic engagement within the community.

Sean Drasher has invested ten years into the field of election administration, starting from a grassroots level by participating as a candidate in local elections. His current role as elections director for Lebanon County encompasses managing various aspects of election logistics for a significant voter base. The conversation sheds light on the intricacies of conducting elections and the ongoing efforts to engage citizens in civic responsibility through local elections.

In conclusion, Sean Drasher’s experiences during the 2024 presidential election underscore the complexities of election administration, particularly in relation to staffing and voter experience during early voting. Despite encountering significant challenges, the engagement of students as poll workers stands out as a success. With municipal elections fast approaching, the emphasis on community involvement and the encouragement for prospective candidates illustrate Drasher’s commitment to fostering civic participation within Lebanon County.

Original Source: www.witf.org