Region 10 Team Provides Vital Election Security Training for Idaho

As states gear up for what is expected to be a busy election season, CISA recognizes the importance of working with our election partners and that was never more the case than in Idaho. 

Working with Region 10 cybersecurity, protective security, and election security advisors, the Idaho Secretary of State Office recently spearheaded a comprehensive initiative aimed at bolstering election security readiness through a two-part elections security virtual webinar training series supported and facilitated by Region 10.

The virtual webinar series was designed to equip county election officials, involving 44 counties throughout Idaho, with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of forthcoming elections with confidence.

The training series unfolded in two distinct phases: a workshop and tabletop exercise (TTX) training sessions. The robust training sessions fostered a collaborative environment by engaging all participants including state partners from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management and the Idaho State Police. 

“The opportunity to support the exercise with the Idaho Secretary of State’s office was so important to building partnerships to help ensure a safe and secure election,” said Lori Augino, Region 10 Election Security Advisor.

In response to the growing demand for enhanced internal training, CISA security advisors facilitated an additional tabletop exercise training session specially organized at the request of Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane, targeting all internal Idaho Secretary of State staff and elections officials.  

“We really appreciate the support from CISA, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, Idaho National Guard, and our other strategic partners,” said Idaho Secretary of State, Phil McGrane. “Our recent tabletop exercises with the county elections office really challenged us and helped in the preparation for the 2024 election cycle. This exercise highlights our dedication to planning ahead and being prepared, so that we can ensure the strength and integrity of Idaho's electoral system." 

The training focused on a variety of election security topics including CISA’s approach to election security, information on potential risks of phishing, recommendations for mitigating physical security risk, and an introduction to techniques to help recognize potentially escalating situations. The training also examined the identification, detection, and response capabilities of local election officials against cyber and physical security threats impacting elections.

“We are honored to have worked with the Secretary of State’s office to share our knowledge and help build awareness of these issues that could impact our elections,” said Josh Stemp, Idaho Cybersecurity State Coordinator for CISA.