Who has the authority to conduct elections in Missouri?

In Missouri, the authority to conduct elections primarily lies with local jurisdictions, operating under state guidelines. This decentralized approach allows each local authority to manage elections in a way that is responsive to the specific needs and demographics of their community. Local governments are tasked with various responsibilities, such as setting polling places, staffing them with election officials, and ensuring that the election process adheres to state laws and regulations.

State guidelines provide the framework within which local jurisdictions operate, ensuring consistency and compliance across the state. This system empowers local officials to address electoral issues that may arise within their communities while still adhering to overarching state laws that maintain the integrity and security of the electoral process. Therefore, understanding the local jurisdiction's role is crucial when discussing how elections are handled in Missouri.