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De-Escalation: A Guide for Election Officials

Outlines practical de-escalation strategies tailored for election officials, poll workers, and staff who face contentious situations, angry voters, observers, or First Amendment auditors. It details the psychological and physical stress responses triggered during arguments and introduces the CLARA framework (Calm, Listen, Affirm, Respond, Address Alternatives) along with actionable techniques like box breathing, the 5/4/3 grounding method, tone and posture control, changing settings, and “tapping in/tapping out” team support. Additionally, it provides guidance on integrating de-escalation into standard operating procedures through scenario role-playing and stress-management practice.

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