Course Description

Elections are closely contested around the world and are seemingly becoming more so by the day. This course examines the processes and legal frameworks by which elections are held, as these are central to democracy. The themes of the course focus on how to ensure the credibility of elections, also examining emerging threats to the legitimacy of elections, and the financing of campaigns. Practical applications of election law in the United States will be utilized as a case study. The interplay between the Federal and State Governments in overseeing elections will be explored, reviewing each’s role in ensuring free and fair elections. Attendees will be equipped with deeper insights on how the United States conducts elections, which may in turn assist with the development of the election processes in host countries.

Course Outline

Overview of US Elections

• Role of the Federal Government & States in Elections
• Political Parties role in Primary Elections
• Overview of the Electoral College

Federal Elections Agencies

• Federal Elections Commission and the regulating campaign finance
• Elections Assistance Commission and aiding states electoral bodies in ensuring the credibility of elections

Site Visit – Maryland State Board of Elections and the Role of States in Elections

• Overview of How Maryland Conducts Elections
• Review of Maryland’s Campaign Finance Laws
• Candidacy and Registration Process in Maryland

The Role of Money in American Politics

• Lobbying and Lobbyists
• Political Action Committees (PACs)
• Super PACs
• Cryptocurrency

Recent Trends in U.S. Elections

• Credibility in Elections in an age of disinformation and social media
• The Rise of Election Denialism

Course Advisor

Jared DeMarinis is the Director of Candidacy and Campaign Finance for the Maryland State Board of Elections. His main duties include the implementation of electoral policy and the interpretation of state candidacy and campaign finance laws and regulations. Recently, he presided over the most expensive gubernatorial election in Maryland’s history.