INDIANAPOLIS – As 2024 draws to a close, Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales reflects on a year of growth, innovation, and commitment to Hoosiers that has strengthened the state’s civic engagement, business and automotive industry, investor security, and election integrity.
“This year has been one of significant progress for the Secretary of State’s Office and the Hoosiers we serve. Along with my dedicated team, our office has implemented initiatives that will benefit Hoosiers for years to come. As we look ahead to 2025, I am energized by the strides we’ve made together. The work we’ve done this year lays a strong foundation for even greater achievements in the future,” said Diego Morales, Indiana Secretary of State.
2024 Secretary of State’s Office Highlights:
Secure and Trustworthy Local, State and Federal Elections:
Secretary Morales championed legislation to enhance the protection of election workers and increase election integrity. House Enrolled Act 1264 requires proof of citizenship for individuals registering with temporary ID’s. This effort reflects a continued commitment to safeguarding the election process and ensuring Indiana’s elections remain accurate. New ‘Vote Here’ signage was placed at polling locations across the state, clearly stating that only U.S. citizens are eligible to vote in Indiana elections and that a valid photo ID is required for all voters.
Unprecedented Voter Education and Outreach Effort:
In 2024, the Secretary of State greatly expanded the Office’s voter education outreach effort. Office staff and volunteers were active throughout the Indiana State Fair and at county fairs, parades, festivals, farmer’s markets, and sporting events, including Colts football games, Indians baseball games, and the Indy 500. IndianaVoters.com $2 Tuesday State Fair events attracted tens of thousands of Hoosiers. Election Information Guides were distributed in over 90 Indiana newspapers. Voter registration and “Remember to Vote” messages were broadcast throughout the state in partnership with the Indiana Broadcaster’s Association, Hoosier State Press Association, and Indiana Public Broadcasting networks. Register to vote and get out and vote messages were also displayed digitally online and on billboards throughout the state.
Local Election Improvement Grants:
Leading up to the 2024 Election, The Secretary of State secured and delivered Local Election Improvement Grants to 90 Indiana Counties. Secretary Morales made multiple in-person visits to every Indiana County to assist with election preparation and administration. Secretary Morales met with county clerks, prosecutors, sheriffs, business owners, auto dealers, manufacturing plants, civic organizations, and students on his visits. Secretary Morales visited all 92 counties within the first 3 months of 2024.
Blow the Whistle on Election Interference Program
In 2024 Secretary Morales partnered with the federal and Indiana Departments of Homeland Security, state and local law enforcement agencies, state and local emergency management agencies and county election administrators to coordinate, train, prepare and deliver the highest level of election security, preparedness, and safety ever in the state.
IT Innovation for Outstanding Customer Service
In keeping with his Mission Statement to be Open, Accessible, Efficient, and Innovative, in 2024, the Secretary of State began modernizing complex computer systems through which essential business, election, motor vehicle, securities, investment, and consumer protection services are delivered to Hoosiers on a 24-7 basis. The office’s modernized IT infrastructure is accessible to more devices at higher speeds and with increased security. When complete, the IT modernization promises virtually 100%, around-the-clock availability, and customer service, with an overall reduction in administration and maintenance costs.
Showcasing the Hoosier State on the International Stage:
Secretary Morales has continued to prioritize building international relationships that benefit Indiana’s economy and cultural ties. During his official international travels to Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Secretary Morales constantly promotes Indiana as a hub for business, trade, and investment. He’s also welcomed several diplomats and world leaders into his office during the past year. These international connections are vital to expanding opportunities for Hoosiers and ensuring Indiana remains a key player on the international stage.
