"A representative, known as a 'runner,' of each of the parties shall be allowed to come to the table at frequent intervals for the purpose of taking whatever list or memoranda the CHECKERS may wish to give the runner." R.I. Gen. Laws. §17-19-22.
What is runner?
The term Runner refers to an election worker or courier assigned to carry ballots, supplies, results, messages, or other materials between polling places and central election offices. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
What does runner do during an election?
In election administration, Runner is applied according to its defined purpose: an election worker or courier assigned to carry ballots, supplies, results, messages, or other materials between polling places and central election offices. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election. The exact process can differ by office, election type, and jurisdiction.
Why is runner important to election administration?
Understanding Runner matters because the concept can affect election administration, voter participation, legal decisions, or resilience. In this context, it refers to an election worker or courier assigned to carry ballots, supplies, results, messages, or other materials between polling places and central election offices.
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"A representative, known as a 'runner,' of each of the parties shall be allowed to come to the table at frequent intervals for the purpose of taking whatever list or memoranda the CHECKERS may wish to give the runner." R.I. Gen. Laws. §17-19-22.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Runner. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/runner
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