Polling has been my life’s work. I collected my first survey data as a college freshman, not counting the neighborhood poll I conducted at the age of 5. I’ve always been fascinated by what can be learned from a scientifically representative sample of a meaningful universe.
Beyond election polling, my favorite projects involved helping clients discover something they didn’t know to better assess options for their companies, institutions, or causes. That work may continue, but I’ve known for a few years that the election-related portion of my career was nearing its end.
More than a year ago, I informed The Des Moines Register that I would not renew my contract after it expires in 2024, intending to conduct my final election poll before transitioning to other ventures and opportunities.
Would I have liked to announce this after my final poll, aligned with the election day results? Of course. Ironically, it’s the opposite. I’m proud of the work I’ve done for The Register, Detroit Free Press, Indianapolis Star, Bloomberg News, and other public and private organizations with an interest in elections. They’ve been great clients and were pleased with my work.
For each of them, there have been polling surprises. In the end, my findings held up. Over 30 years of polling led to an A+ rating in Nate Silver’s analysis of poll accuracy. I earned that grade on Silver’s first list, and it never dropped. Perhaps that history of precision made the external position too comfortable.
Polling is the science of estimation, and science has a way of periodically humbling the scientist. So, I remain humble but always ready to learn from unexpected discoveries.
My work will continue for current clients and those yet to come. Additionally, I’m considering how to apply my other talents for the benefit of new clients.
My integrity means a lot to me. For those who doubt it, no words will likely change their minds. For those who know me best, I appreciate the notes and calls reminding me that what attracted them to me as friends, colleagues, and clients was a shared commitment to truth and accuracy—both in my professional and personal relationships.
That’s part of my DNA, and I intend to protect and preserve that core of who I am.
Ann Selzer is the head of Selzer & Co. in West Des Moines. She first worked with the Iowa Poll in 1987 as an employee of The Des Moines Register, then founded her own firm and has conducted the Iowa Poll under contract since 1997.