Jackie Wu often asked herself this question when she worked at the Orange County California Registrar of Voters in 2020.
With election officials on the front lines of democracy, Jackie wrote this book to shed light on what happens behind the scenes to ensure elections are conducted securely, transparently, and with integrity.
Her book starts on Election Day in March 2020, just as a mysterious pandemic began. During the election cycle, her team faced threats of violence and heavy public and media scrutiny. Failure was not an option with the heavy responsibility of protecting voters’ rights and access to the ballot box.
Home to the United States’ fifth largest voting jurisdiction, Orange County election officials were confronted with unprecedented crises in 2020, including:
• Wildfires that threatened voting access.
• Fake voting locations and ballot drop boxes.
• Protests at election offices.
• Active shooter and bomb threats.
• Unrelenting pressure from political parties, candidates, and campaigns.
• The threat of contracting COVID-19 while assisting voters and fear of passing it on to loved ones.
Jackie’s compelling account reveals the intense challenges election officials throughout the country face in these polarized times. Their diligence and commitment to public service ensure that our nation, voting rights, and democracy are preserved for future generations.
What Are You Willing to Sacrifice for Democracy?
Contact for interviews, speaking opportunities, and other invitations to collaborate: Jackie@JWuConsulting.com
Praise for On the Front Lines of Democracy
“As California Secretary of State, I deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of election officials, especially during such a crucial and challenging time as the 2020 Presidential General Election. On the Front Lines of Democracy provides a meaningful account of the resolute efforts and sacrifices made by election officials. I recommend this book to readers who want to gain insight into the vital work of election officials during this historic election.”
—Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., California Secretary of State
“As the former chief elections official of Orange County, CA, I am proud to endorse this insightful book penned by a senior manager from my office. Jackie Wu’s account of our experience administering the 2020 Presidential General Election vividly describes our team's dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment. This book is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of our staff in overcoming unprecedented challenges while ensuring a smooth and inclusive electoral process. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the intricacies of election administration and the often unseen efforts involved in upholding the democratic process.”
—Neal Kelley
Member, U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s Board of Advisors (2008 - 2022)
President, National Association of County Recorders, Election Officials and Clerks (2014-2016)
Registrar of Voters, Orange County Registrar of Voters (2005-2022)
“A rare first-hand account by a dedicated public servant who has worked tirelessly to keep our democracy working. Describing a time when public agencies faced unprecedented challenges, this book details how expert, nonpartisan, hardworking election officials like Ms. Wu were responsive to voters’ needs and ensured that every voter had access to the ballot box.”
—Sam Oliker-Friedland, Executive Director, Institute for Responsive Government
"A powerful and compelling account of the extraordinary dedication and resilience of election officials who make our democracy happen. Wu illustrates firsthand how these unsung heroes in our election offices ensure voting is as convenient as possible, especially in response to challenges posed by the global pandemic, revolutionizing election administration along the way. An essential read for anyone seeking to understand the work behind 'making elections work.'"
—Keara Mendez, Director of Advocacy, Center for Tech and Civic Life
"This valuable book provides a rare look at the inner workings of an election process. The circumstances make it especially intriguing, for it’s the 2020 fall election in Orange County, California, beset by wildfires, voter intimidation, attempted voting sabotage, and shooter and bomb threats. Author Jackie Wu was on the front lines, and she chronicles this historic election in passionate detail.”
—David Aretha, editor, Civil Rights Chronicle
“As a fellow Asian American election official, I have personally experienced the unique obstacles and triumphs that come with this profession. This book will serve as a source of inspiration and empowerment for current and future generations of election workers. I highly recommend On the Front Lines of Democracy to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the craft, dedication, and sacrifice of election officials."
—Tommy Gong, Deputy County Clerk-Recorder, Contra Costa County
“An important and honest read for anyone seeking to understand the critical role of election officials in safeguarding democracy. Despite facing numerous threats, election officials consistently prioritize the enfranchisement of voters and the accuracy of election results, demonstrating an unparalleled passion for upholding the democratic principles that form the foundation of our society. I hope that readers learn from the stories in this book and that it inspires them to take whatever steps they can at this fragile time to help protect our democracy.”
—John Lindback
Executive Director, Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) (2014-2017)
President, National Association of State Elections Directors (2008)
Elections Division Director, Oregon Secretary of State (2001-2009)
"Jackie Wu offers a fascinating insider’s perspective on the essential work election workers do in running U.S. elections as well as the obstacles and dangers they encounter. With over 30 years of experience working for state legislators, candidates, political action committees, labor organizations, and nonprofits, I have witnessed firsthand their dedication and resilience. This book offers a glimpse into the lives of the hardworking public employees who make democracy possible for us all."
—Bill Wong, Democratic Strategist and Amazon best-selling author of Better to Win: Hardball Lessons in Leadership, Influence and the Craft of Politics
"Having dedicated years working to make voting easier for everyone. I am thrilled to endorse a book telling the story of election officials in Orange County during the 2020 Presidential Election. Their innovative efforts and unwavering priority to improving the voter experience positively impacted the democratic process, resulting in historic voter turnout – even amidst a pandemic. An eye-opening read and a success story of providing accessible voting for all."
—Whitney Quesenbery, Executive Director, Center for Civic Design
“With perspectives both professional and personal, Jackie Wu shares a vital and timely exploration of the immense hurdles and threats faced by courageous, dedicated election officials in the 2020 election, providing invaluable insights into what happens behind the scenes in safeguarding the electoral process.”
—Brian Green, political consultant and author of Rail Tales: Adventures on Public Transit
“On the Front Lines of Democracy presents a month-by-month survey of events in 2020 America that melds insights into Jackie Wu’s life with observations of voting rights. While its focus is on what it’s like to be an election official making decisions and overseeing this right to vote, Wu even more importantly documents the daily struggles for preserving rights that have been eroded in other countries. The personal touch throughout lends a sense of drama to this story. Very highly recommended for libraries, for readers interested in insights about democracy, and for book clubs.”
—D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
