You Are Needed

Have you ever considered serving as an election worker or volunteer? Doing so is less intimidating than you might think, and in Michigan there are a few important roles for you to consider:

Election Inspector:

Election inspectors (sometimes called poll workers) are hired, trained, and paid by local officials. They help run elections by carrying out tasks like assisting voters and processing ballots. They must be at least 16 years old, and if they are 18 or older, they must be registered to vote. This is a non-partisan position, but applicants must disclose their political party affiliation in order to ensure balanced staffing. You can find out more information at https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/pollworker.

Election Challenger:

Election challengers are non-governmental volunteers appointed and trained (“credentialed”) by a political party, special interest group, or incorporated organization. They are observers with power to object if they see something improper, but they cannot assist voters or run elections. You will find election challengers at early voting sites, polling places, absentee voter ballot processing locations, and clerks’ offices.

Poll Watcher:

Poll watchers are non-governmental election observers. Theirs is a non-credentialed, untrained volunteer role that is open to the general public (excluding candidates who are on the ballot). Poll watchers are entitled to observe elections from designated viewing areas at early voting sites, polling places, and absentee voter ballot processing locations, but they cannot make challenges or otherwise disrupt the voting process. Still, their role is vitally important in assuring transparency and election integrity.

If you are able, consider volunteering your time with our local elections. It is a meaningful way to support your community!