“Becoming a poll worker is one of the most impactful things an individual can do to protect election security and voting access in their community,” Russ Feingold, president of ACS.
Our country is in the midst of a struggle between securing the promise of a multiracial democracy and succumbing to authoritarianism. The outcomes of the 2024 election cycle could prove determinative in this struggle. Are you wondering what you can do to help ensure that democracy prevails? One of the most impactful ways this election cycle – for both the primaries and the general election – is to serve as a poll worker.
Poll workers are essential for the functioning of our elections. In recent years, many states and localities have struggled with a shortage of poll workers, which has resulted in long lines at polling places and even in the closure of some polling places.
The responsibilities of poll workers can differ depending on the state and locality, but generally they include answering voter questions, setting up polling places, verifying voter registration, and helping to issue ballots. Put simply, a polling place needs poll workers in order to operate, which means voters need poll workers in order to exercise their right to vote.
Lawyers, law students, and folks with election experience make excellent poll workers. That said, you do not need to be a lawyer or a voting rights expert to be a poll worker. Your state or locality will provide you with all the information you need to be a poll worker, for both primary and general elections.
Take our pledge today to be a poll worker this election cycle!
WHAT CAN I DO?
- Take the pledge to become a poll worker in the next election cycle.
- Learn more about your state/localities’ process for becoming a poll worker.
- Recruit your friends and families to become poll workers.
Recruit your friends and family to become poll workers!
- Spread the word to your social media networks:
Share this graphic on Instagram with the suggested caption (click to enlarge):
- Customize this sample flyer to help recruit people to become poll workers.