CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – For the fourth consecutive year, Tennessee has been recognized as the nation’s leader in secure and trustworthy elections after claiming the top spot, alongside Arkansas, in the Heritage Foundation’s Election Integrity Scoreboard.
“No other state has achieved the distinction of being ranked No. 1 four years in a row since the scorecard’s inception,” said Montgomery County spokesperson Michelle Hueffmeier. The Heritage Foundation’s comprehensive evaluation of all 50 states cited Tennessee’s voter ID laws, voter registration list maintenance and bipartisan election oversight as key factors in its selection.
Hueffmeier said that the scorecard is assessed with a wide range of criteria, including absentee ballot management, vote counting procedures, and transparency in election administration.
Secretary of State Tre Hargett praised the recognition and said that this ranking reflects the tireless work of county election commissions and the General Assembly’s commitment to protecting the ballot box. “In Tennessee, it’s easy to vote and hard to cheat – and that’s exactly how it should be,” Hargett said. The secretary of state also recognized legislative leadership as well for the achievement.
Meanwhile, Mark Goins, the coordinator of elections, emphasized the role local officials had on the outcome. “This recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of election officials across all 95 counties. We work year-round to ensure every vote is counted accurately and securely, and it’s gratifying to see that effort acknowledged nationally,” Goins said.
Amanda Joslin, Montgomery County administrator of Elections, added to Goin’s comments by saying that Tennesseans deserve to have full confidence in elections. “Tennessee leads by example, and we will continue to set the standard for the nation,” Joslin said.
| DON’T MISS A STORY: Sign up for the free daily Clarksville Now email newsletter