Montana Election Observation Initiative
A Nonpartisan Election Observation project sponsored by The Carter Center
The Montana Election Observation Initiative (MTEOI) aims to enhance transparency and public understanding about election procedures in Montana, detect and deter electoral malfeasance, and offer evidence-based recommendations for electoral reform to improve the conduct of elections, if warranted.
In Elections, Transparency Fosters Trust
The Carter Center worked with local organizations in three states to observe the 2024 general election in hopes of improving public confidence in the U.S. voting system.
MTEOI Activity
Observers will report on how Montana election laws and procedures are followed, representing all voters without interfering in the electoral process. Findings from their observations will be compiled to assess the overall quality of elections in Montana.
Research has long indicated that the presence of nonpartisan or independent election observers during critical stages of an election can improve election administration and bolster public trust in electoral outcomes.
The 2022 Survey of the Performance of American Elections – a national survey administered to 10,200 registered voters – found, for example, that a majority of American voters (61%) would have more confidence in the integrity and security of their state’s election system if they knew that nonpartisan poll watchers had observed the process.
Research has long indicated that the presence of nonpartisan or independent election observers during critical stages of an election can improve election administration and bolster public trust in electoral outcomes.
The 2022 Survey of the Performance of American Elections – a national survey administered to 10,200 registered voters – found, for example, that a majority of American voters (61%) would have more confidence in the integrity and security of their state’s election system if they knew that nonpartisan poll watchers had observed the process.
Advisory Committee
- Jeff ManganCo-ChairJeff has spent 35+ years successfully navigating roles in the private & public sectors. Having led several successful businesses and serving when given the opportunity in both elected and appointed public service roles, Jeff served several terms in the Montana House and Senate. Jeff was appointed as Montana's 12th Commissioner of Political Practices and served from 2017 - 2022.
- Geraldine CusterCo-ChairGeraldine Custer has a public service career spanning 44 years. Elected as the Rosebud County Clerk and Recorder in l978, Custer retired after 36 years. She championed legislation for all mail ballot elections beginning with special districts, and expanding to schools, municipal and even a Federal General during Covid.
Custer served four terms in the Montana Legislature serving on State Administration, Taxation, Energy and Local Government Committees - Casey HayesCommitteeCasey Hayes began working in election administration in 2014 at the Montana Secretary of State’s Office. From 2018 through 2021, he served as the Election Manager for Gallatin County during which time the department received national recognition from the Election Assistance Commission for outstanding innovations in elections.
- Bret RutherfordCommittee
Get Involved! Become a MTEOI Observer!
If you wish to volunteer as a nonpartisan observer, please complete the Recruitment Form or contact us at montana@cartercenter.org and we'll initiate the process. MTEOI observers are provided training, materials, observation schedule, and a small stipend
PLEASE NOTE - Effective 10/30/2024 We are no longer recruiting observers for the 2024 General Election. Please stay tuned for information as we move forward in 2025!
PLEASE NOTE - Effective 10/30/2024 We are no longer recruiting observers for the 2024 General Election. Please stay tuned for information as we move forward in 2025!
Current News
Montana Election Observation Initiative News & Media
The Carter Center
The Carter Center worked with local organizations in three states to observe the 2024 general election in hopes of improving public confidence in the U.S. voting system.
MTEOI Blog
MTEOI is committed to Montana’s elections and will continue its mission through education, outreach, and support
MTEOI Releases 2024 General Election Report
MTEOI Blog
"From one corner of the sprawling state to the other, we met passionate citizens from all political leanings who saw this program as an exciting window into the inner workings of Montana’s elections"
Voices of Montana (radio program)
There’s no doubt the 2020 presidential election left some questions to be answered about the integrity of our election system. In Montana, one group is taking steps forward in closely observing our election process and in training volunteers across the state to do the same for more accountability. Co-Chairs of the Montana Election Observation Initiative Geraldine Custer and Jeff Mangan, join the program to discuss their initial reactions and report on the 2024 general election in Montana.
Issue One - Democracy Fix
With such a closely watched vote count in 2024, election process transparency is critical for voter confidence. Former Montana Commissioner of Political Practices Jeff Mangan and former State Representative Geraldine Custer join Dr. Carah Ong Whaley and Risa Dorf to share their new nonpartisan initiative to provide voters in Montana with trusted and independent oversight of state elections.
Contact Us
Montana Election Observation Initiative
sponsored by the Carter Center & Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center
+1 (406)452-6966
montana@cartercenter.org
montana@cartercenter.org