Elections Origin Story: Karen Brinson Bell
Meet North Carolina's Chief Election Official and Executive Director for the North Carolina State Board of Elections
Karen Brinson Bell, Chief Election Official and Executive Director, North Carolina State Board of Elections
When and how did you get started in elections?
In some ways, I was born into elections because my father was mayor of our hometown when I was born. Throughout my life, I watched him and other members of my family serve as poll workers and be active in the election environment. Even as a little kid, I would tag along with him to the courthouse to see the results be written out on the chalkboard on election night.
Elections became my profession in 2006 when North Carolina was going through a statewide rollout of voting equipment. I had a background in training and the State was needing regional trainers for the rollout. The job became much more than training — really a jack of all trades — because my five years in that role included stepping in when county election directors were on medical leave, conducting pilot programs for ranked choice voting, ensuring compliance with NVRA, and so much more.
In 2011, I became the Transylvania County Elections Director. Four years later, I transitioned into work with an elections software company before working full-time as consultant advising about the administration of ranked choice voting (RCV). I spoke with election administrators, legislators, and advocates from Maine to Hawaii about the nuts and bolts of conducting an RCV election. In June 2019, I was appointed as executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, which designates me as the state's chief election official.
Every day since February 1, 2006, I have come to love this profession, the people I'm fortunate enough to work with, and the voters I serve more than the day before — even on the worst days. This is a more than a profession; it's a passion.
If you were not working in Election Administration, what do you think you would be doing?
I'd likely be working in the non-profit sector – not sure the cause, but I feel called to help others.
What is your favorite hobby?
Probably travel — I have six more of the 50 states to complete and my husband and I are on a quest to see every state capitol and Liberty Bell replica (remember the last name is Bell). Otherwise, I my other hobbies are often about the season or occasion. I love to bake for stress relief and for others to just enjoy. I love to hike particularly in the North Carolina mountains and any of our national parks. I'm an avid sports fan regularly attending NC State football games and basketball games. Plus I love baseball and visiting the stadiums when I travel, NFL football, and even follow hockey some.
Who is your favorite superhero and why?
100% it's Wonder Woman! I watched the TV show when I was a little kid and even had the Underoos! I have a miniature "talking" Wonder Woman on my desk at work.
Look at all the skills, strengths, and tools she has that we can use in elections! Bracelets to deflect, a lasso for truth, quick reflexes, stamina, ability to fly, strength, speed, smart and strategic.