Most Arizonans will never know the names of the people who prepare polling places, answer voters' questions, process ballots and carefully count votes. Yet every election depends on their dedication. They are our neighbors, friends and fellow community members who give their time and talents in service to others, often without recognition or thanks.
As faith and business leaders, we recognize something deeply meaningful in that quiet commitment to service. We see it every day in our congregations, businesses and communities, where people care for neighbors, support local families and step forward when help is needed. We may come from different backgrounds, but we share a belief in the dignity of every person and a responsibility to contribute
to the common good.
That is why we are coming together to express appreciation for the election officials, poll workers and volunteers who help make our democracy possible. Their work deserves our gratitude and respect.
Unfortunately, that spirit of service is not always met with the kindness it deserves. According to a 2026 national survey by the Brennan Center for Justice, 32 percent of local election officials reported experiencing threats, harassment or abuse. Nearly 1 in 4 worried about being assaulted at home or at work, while more than half expressed concern for the safety of their colleagues and staff.
Incidents have happened here in Arizona, and we can all play a role in preventing more. No one should have to fear for their safety because they help their neighbors vote.
Our communities thrive when people trust one another and the institutions that serve them. That trust matters in our places of worship, our neighborhoods and our local businesses. It also matters in our elections, where confidence in a fair and transparent process is essential to a healthy democracy and a stable economy.
Supporting that process is not about taking a political side. It is about honoring the shared responsibilities that allow our communities to function and flourish.
We may vote for different candidates. But we can agree that every eligible voter deserves the opportunity to cast a ballot without interference, every lawful vote must be counted and the will of voters in a lawful election must be honored.
And we can agree that the people entrusted with administering our elections deserve to carry out their responsibilities safely and with the support of their communities.
These are not principles that belong to one political party, one faith or one profession. They are shared responsibilities that help sustain our communities.
As we honor election heroes, we invite Arizonans of every faith, background and political perspective to join us in showing appreciation. Offer a kind word to a poll worker. Show patience when voting. Remember that the people administering our elections are human beings deserving of dignity and respect.
Above all, take a moment to say thank you.
The people who make our elections possible serve neighbors, without regard for how they vote or what they believe. Their commitment to serving others reflects the very values we strive to uphold in our own communities.
05We may never know their names. But we can make sure their service does not go unrecognized, and as a community we can be clear that all public servants deserve to be safe as they carry out their duties.
Kimber Lanning is founder and CEO of Local First Arizona in Phoenix; the Rev. Sarah Oglesby-Dunegan is senior minister of Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Chandler; the Rev. Hunter Ruffin is rector of Episcopal Church of the Epiphany-Tempe; and Rabbi Nitzan Stein-Kokin is with Beth El Congregation in Phoenix. They wrote this piece in partnership with AZ United for Fair Elections, a nonpartisan project that brings Arizonans together across faiths, professions and communities for fair, safe and secure elections.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona election workers deserve gratitude, not threats | Opinion
