See Democracy in Action: Become a Poll Worker
Regardless of your political affiliation, being frustrated by politics or the news is a common form of stress. Unfortunately, negative news captures more views, so after a while, you might feel overwhelmed or powerless despite the additional “information.” Discussions about elections, the President, Congress, or international relations can be very intense.
The Good News: There are things you can do to lessen news-induced aggravation. These include the following:
1. Spend less time engaging with the news and social media
2. Call your legislators and voice your concerns
3. Make sure your voter registration is up to date
4. Encourage others to register and get out and vote
5. Volunteer for causes you care about
6. Sign up to be a poll worker!
How to Become a Poll Worker
Let’s focus on becoming a poll worker. There is a shortage of election poll workers nationwide. Becoming a poll worker can be an extremely rewarding experience.
“Not only are you helping your friends and neighbors have a positive experience when they cast their ballot, but it is also an opportunity to ensure elections are safe, secure, accurate, and accessible,” said Election Assistance Commission (EAC) Chairman Donald Palmer, Vice Chair Thomas Hicks, Commissioner Christy McCormick, and Commissioner Ben Hovland in a joint statement.1
You are surrounding yourself with others who share a passion for civic engagement and you feel a sense of purpose and community. You truly get to see “democracy in action.”2
Poll Worker Duties
Poll worker duties vary by location, but all poll workers will go through a training to learn and review election rules, responsibilities, and situations they may encounter at the polls. Once trained, most poll workers are asked to set up and prepare voting locations, welcome and interact with voters, verify registrations, and issue ballots.
Poll workers also assist voters in understanding the voting process and procedures and will demonstrate how to use voting machines.1 The hours of Election Day maybe long, but one poll worker explains that, “an unwavering positivity and camaraderie persisted throughout the day.”2
Poll workers may also be asked to assist with a recount, meaning they would help to physically count paper ballots. After participating in one such recount, a particular poll worker stated that she, “gained a newfound appreciation for the intricate processes that underpin our democracy and the meticulous attention to detail required to uphold its integrity.”2
Sign Up to Become a Poll Worker
Being a poll worker is a fantastic way to combat political anxiety and a wonderful way to get involved in the local actions of your community. More than two-thirds of U.S. election jurisdictions reported that it was “very difficult” or “somewhat difficult” to find enough poll workers to meet their needs, so Your community needs you!3
For further information, and to sign up to become a poll worker in your area, hit this button: