Missouri’s Secretary of State, Denny Hoskins, recently reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its electoral system. His remarks emphasize the essential role of public trust in democratic processes, particularly in an era when confidence in institutions is under scrutiny. Recognizing the importance of secure and transparent elections, Hoskins expressed gratitude to both local and national leaders focused on these vital issues.
As the chief election authority in Missouri, Hoskins highlighted that elections in the state are managed by local election authorities, including county clerks and boards of election commissioners. This structure ensures that elections are administered by those who understand their communities, enhancing accountability and responsiveness. Missouri law incorporates numerous safeguards to uphold the integrity of elections, emphasizing that access and security are not mutually exclusive.
Alignment with National Integrity Principles
Missouri’s election laws already align with many national proposals aimed at enhancing electoral integrity, such as the Make Elections Great Again initiative. Key principles like voter identification, the use of paper ballots, and limits on mass mail voting are already standard in the state. This existing framework demonstrates Missouri’s proactive approach to maintaining the integrity of its elections.
Trust in the electoral process, according to Hoskins, is built through consistent and transparent administration. This includes regular maintenance of voter rolls, testing of voting equipment, and training for poll workers. In 2025, Missouri undertook significant efforts to update voter rolls by implementing new tools designed to identify and remove deceased voters and ineligible registrations, in compliance with the law. Hoskins emphasized that these measures are not about suppressing votes but about protecting them, ensuring that every legitimate vote is counted.
Appreciation for Election Workers
Hoskins extended his gratitude to the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to facilitate elections in Missouri. This includes the poll workers who prepare polling places and manage operations on Election Day, as well as the staff from the Secretary of State’s Office and local election boards. These public servants come from diverse backgrounds, encompassing various political affiliations, and they play a crucial role in upholding democracy.
The Secretary of State reaffirmed his commitment to supporting local election authorities by providing them with all necessary lawful tools to ensure elections are secure, accessible, and fair. He also pledged to collaborate with state and federal partners while respecting Missouri’s authority to manage its own electoral processes.
In closing, Hoskins stated, “Elections are sacred — not because they are perfect, but because they give every citizen a voice.” His commitment to safeguarding public trust in Missouri’s electoral system reflects a broader dedication to democratic principles and the belief that every voter deserves confidence in the electoral process.
