COLLIN COUNTY, Texas — After 44 years in the elections world, Bruce Sherbet is calling it a career.
The Collin County elections administrator of nine years is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service. In total, he's served under 20 secretaries of state, nine county judges, and countless county commissioners.
Inside his office is a personal museum dedicated to voting history — complete with poll tax receipts and vintage lever machines.
Sherbet's career began in his early twenties, and over the years, he’s conducted nearly every kind of election imaginable—except, as he jokes, “stone tablet and chisel” elections. His tenure as administrator spans Dallas, Ellis and Collin counties.
His first start was in Dallas County. He ultimately left the job in 2011 following a 'change in direction' at the administrative level and after 'reading the tea leaves.'
“I loved this job,” Sherbet says, reflecting on his long career. “I’m retiring because I’ve done it for so long, and it’s time for my next chapter.”
He began his work in elections at just 23 years old presiding over voter registration in Dallas County. Over the decades, he’s seen it all. But recently, the political climate has shifted, making his job more challenging than ever before. Sherbet admits that the last few years have been especially difficult. The rise of misinformation, disinformation and attacks on election integrity have taken a toll on him and the staff.
"I've felt the weight of being elections administrator more this last four years than all 44 years," Sherbet said.
Despite this, Sherbet remains deeply grateful for the support of Collin County’s commissioners, who allowed him to do his job despite the unwarranted scrutiny. He says that over the last four years there have been improvements to voting, auditing, chain of custody, and tracking which, overall, is a great thing for elections.
Sherbet tells WFAA that across Texas, nearly 40% of elections administrators have left their jobs, with even higher turnover in other states. Many seasoned administrators, weary from the increasing pressure, have chosen to step down.
“You’re seeing experienced, veteran elections administrators saying, ‘I’m done,’” he said.
While Sherbet’s passion for his work has never wavered, he’s always made sure to maintain a strict nonpartisan stance. Since 1980, Bruce has not cast a vote in any primary election, a decision he made to ensure his impartiality in his role as elections administrator.
"I had a personal commitment in 1980 that I represent all parties and all candidates on the ballot," he said.
Sherbet said he is excited to spend more time with his family; his wife, two children, and two grandchildren. He says he's missed a lot of Halloweens and Mothers Days and other important days throughout the year and over the decades.
“It’s stressful, and you take it home with you,” he admits.
He said he's thankful for all the relationships he's built with the people around him over the decades — especially the poll workers.
“I would miss the people, the poll workers, the most,” Sherbet says. “They’re the most dedicated people you’ve ever seen in your life.”
Sherbet tells WFAA that he put in his notice to retire last month. And, the idea of retirement really started a couple years back. But, he made a commitment to the county to see through the general election, especially after a number of new initiatives were implemented.
“It is something I would never change for anything," he said. "Good or bad.”
Sherbet just worked his last major election. His last day is Dec. 31 after he finishes up a run-off election in Princeton.