At the heart of American democracy is a common principle that has guided our nation for nearly 250 years: the people decide. Elections do not happen in a vacuum every two or four years. This is a collective effort that requires all of us to participate and be engaged citizens – as voters, poll workers, and poll workers.

Our elections allow every eligible voter to have a say in who will govern our republic and the policies that will shape our future. Whatever your political beliefs, the election reminds us that every voice counts. Take it from us – a liberal Democrat from Maryland and a conservative Republican from Tennessee who certainly disagree on many issues – civility and faith in the democratic process are the hallmarks of self-government.

As we look back to Election Day 2024, here are seven important virtues we should all agree on in the weeks, months, and years ahead so that our democracy remains strong and a beacon of freedom.

1. Elections are a shared responsibility.

Democracy is not simply a form of government. It’s a partnership; it’s a verb. This is what we do together as citizens – voters, elected officials and candidates, election officials – to reinforce and uphold the truth that here in America, leaders are chosen by the people. Every vote helps shape and maintain a system in which everyone can influence decisions, not just the most powerful. We must all participate and fulfill our role in the democratic process.

2. Bipartisan teams ensure integrity and accuracy.

Elections run a little differently depending on where you live, but all states take steps to ensure the integrity of the voting process. Teams of Republicans and Democrats work together at every stage of the voting process to verify voter eligibility, prepare ballots and other materials, and serve as independent observers. This collaboration is essential to ensure that every vote is counted fairly and accurately, especially in hotly contested races where a recount may be necessary. Errors and technical problems may occur during the election process, but they are detected quickly and do not have a significant impact on the outcome of the election.

3. Reliable technology, trained professionals.

Before voting, the machines that count our votes are rigorously tested for accuracy and security. Every state must do this. Likewise, each jurisdiction has security controls and “chain of custody” procedures to document the location and condition of ballots and voting materials so that all elements of the election system are accounted for. The protective measures don’t stop there. Every election in every jurisdiction is administered by a team of qualified professionals working together and putting partisan preferences aside to ensure processes run smoothly and every vote is secure and counted accurately. Voters can trust these public officials to do their jobs with integrity and unwavering patriotism.

4. Americans stationed abroad can vote safely.

Foreign voters, including members of our military and their families, deserve to have their votes counted here at home. The military in uniform knows better than anyone that U.S. elections give ordinary citizens a voice that many people around the world don’t have. Any claim suggesting that the military vote is open to fraud is unequivocally false. Foreign voters’ ballots are subject to the same rigorous security checks that protect all of our elections, and it is crucial that their voices are heard.

5. Verification is key.

Before the results are certified, their accuracy is subject to thorough verification. Even if a media outlet predicts a winner on election night, these reports are based on partial counts or estimates of the results. Nothing is final until the results are certified by election officials. These officials can conduct audits to prove that votes were counted accurately and, in the case of an extremely close race, officials can recount each vote to confirm accuracy and resolve any errors. This may take time, but the public should be assured that the end results are indeed correct. Once officials can legally certify that the election results accurately reflect all votes cast, the result can be officially declared and certified.

6. Attacks on election officials are attacks on America.

It’s important to remember that our elections are organized and administered by ordinary people: they could be your neighbors, friends or family members. These officials are committed to keeping our elections free, fair and secure. They make our democracy work. It is our patriotic duty to make our voices heard – and we can support our brave election workers when we exercise this freedom. Any threat or attack against public officials who ensure our elections are free and fair undermines our democracy. It’s just not American. These dedicated professionals are essential to ensuring fair elections and deserve our support and respect.

7. Patience is a virtue.

In a perfect world, we would all go to bed on election night knowing who our next president will be. But we know that’s not how it works currently. In our fast-paced world, it is essential to prioritize precision over speed. A little patience can assure us that the results we get are legitimate and that any challenges to election results are based on evidence and respect for the rule of law.

As we reflect on the 2024 elections, we must remember that the strength of our democracy lies not only in its institutions, but also in the hands of each of us. For all future elections, we must all commit to preserving our sacred experience by supporting election officials who ensure our elections are free and fair, exercising patience while results are verified, and affirming that every vote eligible will be counted. In doing so, we can carry the torch of freedom and continue the work of building a more perfect union.