Santa Fe County Clerk Katharine Clark is spearheading a national initiative to restore federal election security support. In response to recent federal budget cuts affecting election security, Clark has successfully advocated for a resolution by the National Association of Counties (NACo) Board of Directors. This resolution urges Congress and the Administration to reinstate funding and support for essential programs such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC).
Recent changes have posed significant challenges for local election officials. Over 130 CISA employees were laid off, disrupting cybersecurity functions, while CISA's election security activities have been temporarily paused. Additionally, the Department of Justice has disbanded a task force focused on foreign election interference.
Clark highlighted the urgency of restoring these programs: "Local election officials are committed to ensuring elections remain free, fair, and secure. However, recent federal cuts have made this work more challenging. Election security is not optional. Congress must act quickly to reinstate funding for CISA, EAC, and DOJ programs so that we can continue protecting our democracy."
The NACo resolution led by Clark recommends several actions: fully funding CISA and EAC for resources and support; ensuring nonpartisan federal assistance remains voluntary; reinstating DOJ programs for investigating election-related crimes; and rebuilding collaboration between federal agencies and local officials.
For further information, contact Celeste Garcia at Santa Fe County Clerk’s Office at (505) 986-6289 or ccgarcia@santafecountynm.gov.
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