Overview

The Commissioner of Elections is the head and “principal administrative officer” of the Department of Elections, which undertakes duties delegated to it by the State Board of Elections. Va. Code § 24.2-102(B). For a detailed list of authorities that have been delegated, see “Delegation of Authority.”

Makeup and Term

The Commissioner of Elections is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the General Assembly to a four-year term starting July 1 in the year after a gubernatorial election. Va. Code § 24.2-102(B).

Appointment Information

• Appointed: The Commissioner is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the General Assembly. Va. Code § 24.2-102(B).
• Qualifications and Restrictions: They must be a registered Virginia voter. They cannot be a family member of a State Board member or Virginia political candidate or elected officeholder. Also, they may not themselves be a candidate, officeholder, political committee chair, political campaign worker, or volunteer for any candidate voted on by all or some Virginia voters. Va. Code § 24.2-102(B).