NASS Announces New Committee Co-Chairs

For Immediate Release 
August 10, 2026 

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) is pleased to announce bipartisan NASS Committee Co-Chair appointments. Alongside the Executive Board, the standing Committees contribute to the association’s mission in relevant issue areas. 

“Our committees play a vital role in facilitating collaboration among the states,” said Steve Hobbs, NASS President and Washington Secretary of State. “The expertise and dedication of these co-chairs will foster productive dialog, encourage the exchange of innovative ideas, and advance the important work of NASS in the year ahead. I congratulate each of them on their appointment and thank them for their willingness to serve.” 

NASS 2026-2027 Committee Co-Chair Appointments: 

Business Services: Hon. Paul Pate, Iowa and Hon. Shirley Weber, California 

Elections: Hon. Sarah Copeland Hanzas, Vermont and Hon. Kris Warner, West Virginia 

International Relations: Hon. Nancy Landry, Louisiana and Hon. Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez, Delaware 

Nominations and Credentials: Hon. Michael Howe, North Dakota 

State Records and Archives: Hon. Adrian Fontes, Arizona and Hon. Tre Hargett, Tennessee 

Technology and Security: Hon. Michael Watson, Mississippi and Hon. Steve Hobbs, Washington 

The co-chairs will serve until the conclusion of the NASS 2027 Summer Conference.

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Media Contact:

NASS Communications
communications@nass.org