Derek Bowens

Director of Elections

Durham County, North Carolina


In recognition of Black History Month and the upcoming 2024 election cycle, we sat down with Derek Bowens, a member of CSSE and current Elections Director in Durham County, NC to recognize the critical role that Black election officials and law enforcement play in our democracy and keeping our elections safe and secure.

Can you describe your current or past role in [elections/law enforcement]?

I am currently an Elections Director in Durham County, North Carolina, and run all aspects of election administration for the fifth largest election jurisdiction in the State of North Carolina. I have been an elections administrator for 10 years in two different North Carolina jurisdictions.

Can you elaborate on the scope of your role?

I was appointed by a five-member quasi-judicial board that has delegated all administrative functions of the office to me. My responsibilities include overseeing a full-time staff of 10 and over 1,000 temporary workers, administration of absentee ballots, voter registration services, campaign finance auditing, project management, and much more.

With respect to the Black experience in America and your being a member of CSSE, can you expound on the importance of ensuring that our elections are free, fair, and secure?

Considering the struggle to obtain full suffrage rights in the United States of America, it is critically important that all persons of color not experience any level of restriction when attempting to access the ballot box. This is ensured by establishing laws and policies that protect free, fair, and secure elections. The work of the committee plays a vital part in protecting the franchise not only for people of color, but for all. 

Do you see a need for more Black representation in your field? If yes, why do you want to see more Black representation in your field?   

Yes, but based on merit and not merely race. I know there is plenty of untapped talent among Black Americans who can do this most critical work.

I think it is important that we have equitable representation amongst the nation’s election administrators, especially in minority communities. As a Black American, there is a level of comfort when dealing with entities that are diverse in makeup.

Can you share some of your proudest accomplishments in your field and highlight specific actions you have taken to support and advance democracy?

The greatest accomplishment in my career has been reestablishing a culture of excellent elections in Durham County. We went from a perceived problem county prior in 2017 to a multiple national award-winning office today. In terms of supporting the advancement of democracy, I believe the work of election administration is the greatest contribution I’ve made to the preservation of democracy outside of voting. Election administrators are truly frontline defenders of democracy.

Do you have any other thoughts that you would like to share about Black History Month?

I find it wonderful that CSSE has taken the time to highlight Black History Month. Our collective history and excellence in service to our country merits continual elevation.  


Read more in this series: Q&As with Captain Harold Love.

  • Quote Icon

    “Election officials are the heroes of our democracy, working harder than almost anyone I know to ensure that every one of us can exercise our fundamental right to vote. The intimidation and threats against these dedicated officials and their families must stop."

    Kathy Boockvar
    Vice President of Election Operations and Support, Center for Internet Security
    Kathy Boockvar
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    “Democracy can only survive and thrive if we respect and protect its values and principles. Elected officials must respect those they serve, freely act within their elected authority and act on behalf of a nation that ensures their safety so they may make decisions without fear or intimidation. That is a true democracy."

    Sheriff Paul Penzone
    Maricopa County, Arizona
    Sheriff Paul Penzone
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    “Access to the ballot should not be stymied in any manner, nor should we ever lose valuable election officials because they are worn down from harassment, fear, threats and undue job hardships created to alter public faith in the electoral process. "

    Kathy Holland
    Director of Elections, Alamance County North Carolina (Ret.)
    Kathy Holland
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    “I joined the committee because I took an oath, along with my law enforcement colleagues, to protect and serve all persons, which is in alignment with my personal values and morals. "

    Captain Harold Love
    Michigan State Police (Ret.), Owner and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Harold J. Love & Associates
    Captain Harold Love
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    “The 2020 election cycle brought many challenges for election officials, but the most shocking for me were the death threats, verbal assaults, intimidation, and scare tactics. I am one of the election officials that had my life and the lives of my family members threatened, and the threats have not ceased."

    Tina Barton
    Senior Elections Expert, The Elections Group
    Tina Barton
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    “My dad was a city clerk. Elections were a central and cherished part of his job. I joined this committee to ensure that today’s election officials can keep America’s elections running safely and securely, just like he did."

    Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian
    Middlesex County, Massachusetts
    Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian
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    “Election officials are unsung heroes of American democracy—they make sure our system operates as intended. Threats to these public servants are an attack on democracy itself. Law enforcement and election officials working together can help chart a safer and more secure path forward for future elections."

    Orion Danjuma
    Counsel, Protect Democracy
    Orion Danjuma
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    “Safe, secure, transparent elections are the cornerstone of our democracy. CSSE members recognize the great responsibility associated with election administration and embrace public accountability to ensure that all eligible voters can freely exercise their right to vote and have their ballots counted. We make it a point to welcome and encourage those who want to peacefully observe this fundamental democratic process."

    Neal Kelley
    Registrar of Voters (Ret.) Orange County, California
    Neal Kelley
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    “As an election official who experienced the verbal threats and intimidation directed at me and my staff I feel I must be a voice on this committee to work with law enforcement to address this issue."

    Joseph Gloria
    Registrar of Voters, Clark County, Nevada
    Joseph Gloria
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    “Election workers are the guardians of our democracy, and attacks on them for doing their jobs are unacceptable. I’m proud to stand with and in support of this group of law enforcement and election officials, who are working on practical solutions to keep our elections safe and secure."

    Larry Norden
    Senior Director, Elections & Government, Brennan Center for Justice
    Larry Norden
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    “I have joined this committee because I believe in the mission and have full confidence that we will develop practices that are results driven and further strengthen the pipeline between law enforcement and election officials."

    Derek Bowens
    Director of Elections, Durham County, North Carolina
    Derek Bowens