Central ND News

North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe has opened the nomination process for the 2025 North Dakota Election Hero Award. The award aims to recognize individuals and groups who have contributed to the administration of elections in the state, including election teams, poll workers, policymakers, and others involved in ensuring elections run smoothly.

"Every election depends on the dedication of real people. This includes county auditors getting up before the sun rises and working late into the night, public servants who help coordinate election logistics, poll workers greeting voters with a smile at 7 AM, and policymakers who craft the laws that ensure the integrity of our elections," said Secretary Howe. "These are our neighbors and our community members who step up when it matters most. The Election Hero Award gives us a chance to say thank you to the people who ensure every North Dakota voter can have their voice heard through safe, secure, accurate, and timely elections."

Nominations for the award can be submitted online until October 8, 2025 at sos.nd.gov/electionhero. The award will be presented in November.

Nominees should meet at least one of several criteria: serving in an election-related role within the last four years; increasing public awareness about election processes; improving operations for election workers or voters; promoting secure and fair elections through collaboration; demonstrating dedication and integrity in conducting elections; engaging with stakeholders for process improvement; or sharing accurate information about election laws and best practices within their communities.

The North Dakota Election Hero Award was established in 2023. Previous recipients include Kari Phillips from Langdon in 2023 and the North Dakota County Auditors Association in 2024.