Thank you, election workers

Johnson County voters have much to be thankful for this month as we reflect on the 2020 election. Despite a global pandemic, many local groups and hardworking individuals contributed their time to manage the largest voter turnout in Johnson County. Over 86 percent of registered voters in Johnson County voted this year.

The work began with registering voters, a task requiring volunteers from local groups, including the League of Women Voters and culminated at polling places, also drawing on trained volunteers.

Of the over 84,000 ballots cast, almost 61,000 used the early voting option. Voters mailed in ballots, drove through the Health and Human Services Parking Garage and visited satellite sites at locations, such as our local libraries. All of these sites required trained poll workers, many of whom took time from their usual responsibilities to facilitate the voting process. From all reports, they were professional, helpful and took their jobs seriously.

Johnson County turned results into the Secretary of State in under 30 minutes. This would not have been possible if it weren't for the hardworking staff at the Johnson County Auditor's office and countless volunteers as well as Iowa's efficient statewide system. According to Auditor Travis Weipert, Iowa was the first state to turn in election results.

And while the work continues in 24 Iowa counties to recount the results of Iowa's 2nd District congressional race, thank you all for your dedication to the democratic process.

Anne Spencer

Co-President

LWV of Johnson County