# Boston Election Department leadership transition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/boston-election-department-leadership-transition
> Updated: 2026-08-26T16:55:25.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Mayor Michelle Wu has appointed Kerry Jordan as the new Executive Director of the Boston Election Department. Jordan, a former chief of staff for the Department of Innovation and Technology, is scheduled to officially assume the role on September 8, 2026.

This leadership change follows a period of state receivership and previous administrative challenges, including ballot shortages and communication failures during the 2024 elections. To modernize operations and prepare for upcoming primary elections, the city has implemented reforms such as the use of electronic check-in devices, known as “poll pads,” and the launch of an Election Day call center.

Until Jordan takes office, Paul Chong, the Commissioner of City Records, will continue to serve as the Acting Head of the Elections Department.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Kerry Jordan appointed Executive Director of Boston Election Department

Mayor Michelle Wu has named Kerry Jordan as the new Executive Director of the City of Boston Election Department, effective September 2026, to lead ongoing modernization and operational efforts.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kerry-jordan-appointed-executive-director-of-boston-election-department

### 2026-08-19: Boston appoints new election department director

Mayor Michelle Wu appointed Kerry Jordan as the new head of the Boston Election Department to lead reforms following previous ballot shortages and state receivership.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/boston-appoints-new-election-department-director

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Cite as: Boston Election Department leadership transition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/boston-election-department-leadership-transition