The top election official in Washoe County, Nevada, is taking a leave of absence due to stress-related issues just over a month before Election Day. This has created uncertainty about election operations in a county that has been under constant attack from conspiracy theorists since Donald Trump lost it in 2020. The departure of interim Registrar of Voters Cari-Ann Burgess is the latest in a series of high-level changes within the elections office, making her the third registrar since 2020 in Washoe County, which includes Reno and is crucial for candidates seeking a statewide win in Nevada.
Burgess, who took over the role in January, requested medical leave due to stress issues, and her duties will now be reassigned as the office prepares for mail ballots and early voting. Election officials are bracing for record turnout and are prepared to process ballots from every active registered voter. The recent spike in threats against election officials across the country, as highlighted by the Bipartisan Policy Center, has led to increased turnover rates among election administrators, with many facing a stressful work environment and targeted negative comments.
Washoe County has been under intense scrutiny since Trump’s loss in 2020, with the elections office facing attacks from conspiracy theorists. Recent disputes over the certification of primary election results have put the county in legal jeopardy and raised concerns about potential battles after the upcoming November election. With Burgess on leave, the Nevada Secretary of State’s office is providing guidance and assistance to Washoe County to ensure a secure, safe, and efficient election process. Deputy Registrar Andrew McDonald has assumed the administrative role in Burgess’ absence, with additional support from staff and county administration.
The Nevada Secretary of State and attorney general’s unsuccessful attempt to confirm obligations for counties to certify election results has added to the uncertainty surrounding election operations in Washoe County. The lack of clarity from the state’s high court on this matter has led to concerns about potential certification battles post-election. Despite these challenges, county officials are working towards conducting a successful election and ensuring the integrity of the voting process. More updates and guidance may be provided as the situation unfolds, with the focus on maintaining a fair and transparent election process in Washoe County.
The stress-related leave of the interim Registrar of Voters in Washoe County highlights the pressures faced by election officials across the country as they prepare for the upcoming presidential election. The ongoing threats and attacks against those involved in counting and processing ballots have led to increased turnover rates among election administrators, further complicating the already challenging task of managing elections. The support and guidance provided by state officials and other agencies will be crucial in ensuring a smooth and secure electoral process in Washoe County as the November election approaches.
