After filing a public records request seeking proof of Nebraska’s compliance with new federal election security requirements earlier this week, Scott Petersen, candidate for Nebraska Secretary of State, has formally requested an audit review by the Nebraska State Auditor of Public Accounts.
The request asks the Auditor to examine whether Nebraska has:
- Complied with federal election security mandates under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)
- Met all requirements tied to federal election funding under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA)
- Maintained adequate internal controls to ensure election system integrity and verification
“This is about accountability,” said Petersen. “If Nebraska is meeting federal requirements, the records should show it. If not, the public deserves to know.”
From Records Request to Audit Review
Petersen’s audit request follows his initial records request seeking documentation of:
- Required penetration testing of voting systems
- Certification and compliance records
- Vendor agreements and system integrity controls
“We asked for the records. Now we’re asking for independent review,” Petersen said. “That’s how transparency is supposed to work.”
Key Areas of Concern
The audit request raises several critical questions, including:
- Whether required security testing has been completed
- Whether federal funds were properly received and justified
- Whether internal controls exist to verify election system software and data integrity
It also calls for review of:
- Software verification and certification practices
- Audit logs, Cast Vote Records (CVRs), and system data retention
- Vendor involvement and potential system access risks
Why This Matters
Federal law now requires enhanced testing and verification of election systems. These requirements are tied directly to:
- Election system security
- Public trust in election outcomes
- Eligibility for federal funding
“You can’t claim election integrity without verification,” Petersen said. “And you can’t verify without independent review.”
Call for Independent Oversight
Petersen is asking the Auditor to:
- Determine whether a formal audit or investigation is warranted
- Identify any deficiencies or compliance gaps
- Issue findings and recommendations to ensure accountability
“This is exactly what the Auditor’s office is for, independent oversight and accountability,” Petersen said. “Nebraskans deserve answers backed by facts, not assumptions.”
Petersen emphasized that the issue goes beyond politics.
“This is about whether Nebraska is following the law, safeguarding election systems, and properly managing taxpayer dollars,” he said. “Transparency isn’t optional. It’s the standard.”
