Marshall County prepares for 2026 midterm elections, completes equipment upgrades

The Marshall County Clerk's Office is preparing for the 2026 Midterm Elections, which will feature several state, county, and local races impacting residents across the county.

Clerk Jenny Bennitt announced Monday that eligible residents may begin filing their declaration of candidacy on January 7th, with a deadline of February 6th at noon.

Individuals considering filing for office can find guidance on the Marshall County website at www.co.marshall.in.us or the Indiana Secretary of State's website at www.in.gov/sos/elections/. Those needing assistance are advised to contact their county party chairman.

The clerk's office has completed several significant equipment upgrades over the past year to enhance security and efficiency.

In January 2024, the county received grant funding to purchase enhanced vote card encoders, upgraded election printers, locked storage cabinets for mail-in ballots, and security walls for the early voting location in the clerk's office.

The county also purchased 24 new poll pads for electronic voter signatures at polling places. The devices, provided by KNOWiNK, are the nation's leading electronic poll books and recently achieved federal certification from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) in December 2025.

KNOWiNK is the first and only provider to offer a federally certified electronic poll book system under the Voluntary Electronic Poll Book Certification Requirements.

After nearly 20 years of service, the county's aging voting machines have been replaced with new technology from Indianapolis-based vendor MicroVote using funds from the county's American Rescue Plan (ARP) Grant.

MicroVote was the first manufacturer in U.S. history to obtain federal voting system certification in 2009 and currently provides election support to 79 of Indiana's 92 counties. The company is one of only six manufacturers in the United States with an EAC-tested and certified federal voting system.

Bennitt expressed confidence in the county's updated election infrastructure following the 2024 presidential election, which she said provided an easy yet secure voting experience.

"We had an abundance of first-time voters who came in with a bit of apprehension, not knowing the voting process, and left with a very positive outlook," Bennitt said. "With the addition of our new voting machines, we are anticipating even better results and look forward to a smooth election in 2026."