Every time you go to your township hall to vote, you will notice that the place seems to be full of people who are making sure that things run smoothly. These people are in charge of everything from double checking that you are a registered voter, collecting your ballot, and answering any questions that you might have.
There are even people who will pick up and drive you home if you are unable to drive yourself to the polls. These individuals are called Election Day volunteers, without them, the entire democratic process would dissolve in shambles. Anyone can become an Election Day volunteer, but there are some things that you will have to do first.
If you are interested in working in the polling office during the Election Day, you are going to have to contact your county election office. They will help you with the paperwork that you need to fill out and make sure that you have received the proper training. Make sure you contact the county election office way in advance, working in the polls is a coveted task and people sign up really early.
Don’t get offended when you are asked to declare your party preferences. No one is trying to step on your toes, or invade your civil liberties. The reason that you have to declare a party is because Federal law dictates that an equal number of Republicans and Democrats have to be working in the polls at the same time. The hope is that this will keep things fair and prevent any accusations of cheating
One if the great things about being an Election Day volunteer who works in the polls is that you aren’t really sacrificing your time. True, you are giving up a chunk of your day, but unlike other volunteers who are working for the campaign, you will get paid. The amount isn’t much, but it is better than nothing at all.
Brace yourself for a really long day. Most volunteers are there from the time that the polls open in the morning, until they close at night.
