Karen Brinson Bell Reappointed As State Elections Chief

The State Board of Elections has reappointed Karen Brinson Bell to a two-year term as the top state elections official. 

Brinson Bell has served as the Board's executive director since June of 2019.  

As the chief elections official, she manages the state's 100 county boards of elections, oversees campaign finance compliance, and ensures accessibility and security at the polls.

Kellie Harris Hopkins is the Beaufort County elections director. Hopkins released a statement praising Brinson Bell's commitment to open communication, calling her a “fierce advocate for county boards of elections.”

Brinson Bell's tenure as executive director has not been without controversy.  Some lawmakers questioned a decision to extend the timeline for returning absentee ballots during the 2020 election, saying it was tantamount to changing state law. Brinson Bell responded that the board was within its legal powers to implement new absentee ballot rules.

In a news release following her reappointment, Brinson Bell said she recognizes the “privilege and responsibility” of ensuring the right to vote.