Washoe County Registrar of Voters Jamie Rodriguez tendered her resignation on Tuesday, January 2.
Rodriguez assumed the role in 2022, taking over from former Registrar Deanna Spikula, who resigned amidst allegations of harassment and threats following an extended leave of absence. An investigation by the Secretary of State found no credible evidence supporting Spikula’s claims.
Her resignation coincides with an extensive audit and ongoing overhaul of Washoe County’s election department and systems. The Elections Group conducted an 80-page audit, revealing errors and confusion in the election process.
Recommendations included hiring additional staff, enhancing training and communication, and providing necessary resources for increased productivity. Despite initial delays in approving the $100,000 audit, Governor Joe Lombardo appointed Clara Andriola, who, along with Chair Alexis Hill and Mariluz Garcia, approved the audit.
Recognizing the need for the overhaul, County Manager Eric Brown emphasized the importance of revamping the election system. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar is working to reform Nevada’s election system by implementing the Voter Registration and Election Management Solution (VREMS).
The system aims to establish a centralized statewide voter registration database, connecting election management systems across the state for secure and accurate elections. Although the VREMS system won’t be ready for the February 2024 presidential primary, the county anticipates initial functionality by June 2024 and its complete operation by 2025.
Deputy Registrar Cari Ann Burgess will serve as interim registrar, pending the County Commission’s appointment during its Tuesday, January 16 meeting. Assistant County Manager Kate Thomas, a former Nevada Deputy Secretary of State, will support the registrar’s office during the transition.
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