Dual Recognition for Voter Education and Data Transparency Initiatives

The Idaho Secretary of State’s Office has received two national Clearinghouse Awards from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, recognizing the state’s work in voter education and election data transparency.

The awards, known as the “Clearies,” honor excellence and innovation in election administration nationwide. Idaho earned recognition in both the Communications category and the Election Administration category.

Statewide Commitment to Election Principles

The Communications award recognized Idaho’s “12 Principles of Idaho Elections” initiative, a joint effort signed by all 44 county clerks and Secretary of State Phil McGrane. The framework educates voters about election safeguards, accessibility, and accuracy across the state.

The collaborative approach brought together election officials statewide to articulate shared commitments to Idaho voters on election security and transparency.

Interactive Data Dashboards Draw National Attention

Idaho’s second award highlighted the interactive election data dashboards available on VoteIdaho.gov. These tools convert official election and campaign finance data into visual formats accessible to voters, journalists, and election administrators.

The dashboards have been featured in election night news coverage and have drawn attention beyond state borders for making complex election information understandable to the public.

Record Competition and Replicable Models

The EAC received nearly 200 entries from across the country for this year’s awards, now in their tenth year. Winners were selected based on innovation, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, replicability, and measurable impact on voter service and election administration.

EAC commissioners noted that winning programs stood out partly because other election offices of varying sizes and resources could adapt them for their own jurisdictions.

Secretary McGrane Credits Staff and County Partners

McGrane said the recognition reflects work by his team and county clerks statewide, crediting the state for standing out among a large field of entries.

He specifically recognized Gabe Osterhout for building the data dashboards and former Policy Director Jason Lehosit for leading the collaboration with county clerks on the 12 Principles framework.

The awards fulfill the EAC’s mission under the Help America Vote Act to serve as a clearinghouse for election administration information and best practices nationwide.