By Sandie Zimmerman

Serving as a Poll Observer or Poll Worker is a commendable way to participate in the election process. They are essential in helping to ensure that free, fair, and accessible elections are conducted in every Ohio county at the precinct level.  Every election cycle, tens of thousands Ohio citizens choose to serve in this capacity to protect the integrity of our republic. But what are Poll Observers or Poll Workers and how can the average citizen sign up to be one? 

According to the Secretary of State, or SoS, Frank LaRose’s website, Election observers or poll observers are “appointed by political parties, groups of candidates, or issue committees to observe the conduct of the election. Observers are allowed to be in the polling location within certain prescribed times before, during, and after voting is complete.” 

A poll observer is a volunteer unpaid position, in which the individual is assigned a precinct on election day or County Board of Elections, or BOE during early voting.

In the November 2023 election, Ohio Election Integrity Network, or OEIN, recruited, trained and deployed poll observers in several Ohio counties. According to Vicki McKinney, board member of OEIN, “In 2024 we plan to recruit Poll Observers in all Ohio’s 88 counties, while working closely with the Ohio GOP.” Those interested in becoming a Poll Observer can contact OEIN at OhioEIN.org

According to Frank LaRose, “Each election, thousands of Ohioans dedicate themselves to sustaining the backbone of democracy—our election process. Poll workers are essential to ensuring that our elections are fair, and in doing so, maintain the traditions of our past and our hope for the future.” 

These citizens serve inside a polling place, checking in voters, answering their questions, setting up and testing voting machines, issuing ballots, and other tasks. Local Board of Elections are responsible for training & assigning Poll Workers throughout their county, as well as issuing each individual a paycheck for their work on election day. If you are interested in serving as a poll worker, you can contact SoS Frank LaRose at  https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/poll-workers/

Defend our Constitutional Republic by becoming a poll observer or poll worker today!