Ewing Forum: Ben Spear

Ben Spear                

Protecting Your Ballot: Election Security Ahead of the 2026 Midterms

In this timely program, Ben Spear, Chief Information Security Officer for the New York State Board of Elections, offers a clear and grounded look at how elections are protected, and what is fact versus fear as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Drawing on years of hands-on experience defending election infrastructure at both the state and national levels, Spear brings audiences directly inside the systems, safeguards, and strategies designed to protect the democratic process.

Election officials today face unprecedented challenges. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, misinformation spreads quickly, and public trust is increasingly fragile. In this conversation, Spear will explain how election systems are secured, what vulnerabilities are actively monitored, and how collaboration among local, state, and national partners strengthens resilience. Rather than speculation or political rhetoric, this discussion focuses on practical realities and proven approaches to risk management.

Audiences will gain insight into the current threat landscape facing U.S. elections, how New York State approaches election cybersecurity, what has changed since recent election cycles, and what has not, and how preparation for the 2026 midterms has long been underway.

With experience in cybersecurity, law enforcement training, and public administration, Spear provides a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to defend democratic systems in an increasingly complex digital age.

Tickets: $35.36 Credit Card ($34 Cash)

All Sales Final – No Returns or Exchanges

Theatre opens at 2:00pm - Seating begins 3:30pm – Show begins 4:00pm