Carolina Lopez is elevating the voter experience via a national network supporting election officials who run elections for more than 123 million Americans. Get involved!
Carolina Lopez leads the Partnership for Large Election Jurisdictions (PLEJ), a national network supporting election officials who run elections for more than 123 million Americans. When election officials face threats, when natural disasters threaten polling places, when misinformation spreads, Carolina and her network are the first responders. It's all about "agility, resilience, and network."
We talk about why elections matter to everything we hold dear, how PLEJ builds trust across deep political divides, and what it looks like when Republicans and Democrats work together to protect the foundation of our democracy. Carolina shares stories from her decade running elections in Miami-Dade County, explains how peer support works when officials come under attack, and offers concrete ways we can all show up for the people protecting democracy at the local level.
The conversation gets real about the challenges election officials face, from armed interference to misinformation campaigns. But it also highlights an incredible network of dedicated public servants who refuse to be divided, who show up for each other across partisan lines, and who are more prepared than ever to protect our collective ability to participate in democracy.
In a world where the integrity and efficiency of elections are crucial, Carolina Lopez stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation. As the founding executive director of PLEJ, she is leading a transformative movement that connects large election jurisdictions across the United States. Here's more about her vision and strategies for enhancing the electoral process.
Carolina Lopez founded PLEJ to create the first national nonprofit network for large election offices, bringing together powerhouses like Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and Boston. The goal: foster collaboration and share best practices on things like "How do we get [voters] in and out the door quicker?" Carolina believes in making complex election laws accessible to all, ensuring that the process is transparent and user-friendly.
The "Village of Support." Carolina describes is a collaborative environment where election officials can share knowledge and resources. "I know some stuff, you know some stuff, but together we know a whole lot more." This collaborative approach not only enhances problem-solving but also builds a supportive community among election officials, enabling them to navigate challenges more effectively.
Carolina highlights the importance of preparedness, especially in the face of threats, whether natural disasters, pandemics, or cybersecurity threats. Drawing from her extensive experience in Miami-Dade County, she emphasizes the need for early detection of potential issues. "How do you communicate transparently?" For instance, when federal cybersecurity support diminished, PLEJ responded by connecting local election officials with former CISA employees to address their concerns.
"You're only as good as the last [election]," underscoring the need for continuous improvement in election practices. PLEJ serves as a platform for learning and sharing experiences, helping election officials adapt and grow with each election cycle. The focus on best practices ensures that every election is more efficient and voter-friendly than the last.
Carolina Lopez's work with PLEJ is about the power of collaboration and continuous improvement in the electoral process. By fostering a supportive network among large election jurisdictions, PLEJ is not only enhancing the efficiency of elections but also ensuring that the voices of voters are heard and respected. As we move forward in an increasingly complex electoral landscape, the principles of transparency, preparedness, and community support are essential in safeguarding democracy.
