Progress Made, But Additional Efforts are Needed to Secure the Election Infrastructure

We determined that the Department has taken some steps to mitigate risks to the Nation’s election infrastructure; however, improved planning, more staff, and clearer guidance could facilitate its coordination with states. Specifically, despite Federal requirement, DHS has not completed the plans and strategies critical to identify emerging threats and mitigation activities, and establishing metrics to measure progress in security the election infrastructure. Further, DHS provides assistance to state and local election officials upon request. Over time, the assistance provided has increased and the quality of information shared has improved. However, staff shortage, lengthy security clearance process, and state and local officials; historic mistrust of the Federal government assistance restrict DHS’ efforts to provide services and assessments needed to secure the election infrastructure. Addressing these issues is essential for continued improvement in the services. We made five recommendations to CISA to enhance the overall effectiveness of DHS’ assistance to secure the election infrastructure, including providing sufficient resources to ensure an organized strategy, improved services and assessments, expanded outreach and information sharing. CISA concurred with all five recommendations.