NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett and State Coordinator of Elections Mark Goins recently recognized DeKalb County Administrator of Elections Dustin Estes for passing the Administrator of Elections Certification Exam.

“Congratulations to Dustin Estes on this achievement,” said Secretary Hargett. “Dustin’s strong desire to meet the highest of standards shows he is committed to effectively serving DeKalb County.”

Administered by the Secretary of State’s Division of Elections in Nashville, the exam is held at least once yearly. This rigorous written assessment contains questions based on statutory requirements, ranging from voter registration to Election Day guidelines.

“Dustin’s hard work and his successful completion of this exam prepare him well to serve,” Goins said. “I appreciate his dedication to ensuring DeKalb County elections are secure, accurate, and trustworthy.”

Before taking the certification exam, election administrators must complete a training process covering 40 different topics related to election law. By passing the exam, these election administrators demonstrate they have the knowledge and training to successfully administer election laws in their respective communities. Tennessee is currently ranked number one in the nation for election integrity by the Heritage Foundation.

“It is important to give confidence to the public that our office complies with Tennessee election laws,” said Estes. “I look forward to working with the Secretary of State’s office and our local election officials to ensure fair and free elections.”

For more information about Tennessee elections, please visit GoVoteTN.gov or call the Division of Elections toll-free at 1-877-850-4959.