Tomorrow is election day. You may have heard about poll watchers but not known exactly what they do. Here’s what you need to know.
Poll watchers have long been part of American elections. But they gained prominence this year as Republican Donald Trump said he would recruit volunteers to make sure the election wasn't rigged.
Rules vary from state to state for poll watchers. In general, poll watchers are registered voters chosen by the campaigns to sit in polling places and observe. They point out possible problems to election officials, and in some states challenge whether a person is actually eligible to vote. Poll watchers cannot campaign or confront voters directly. They are usually the only non-election officials permitted to remain inside, or even near, a polling place.
While poll watching rules differ, there are requirements and rules that apply in most states:
— Most states say poll watchers cannot be candidates, their spouses, or close relatives.
— In most states, candidates must register poll watchers in advance.
— A candidate can appoint a limited number of poll watchers per precinct—often between one and three.
—Many states require poll watchers to wear a badge identifying themselves and their candidate.
Some states have unusual rules:
— Kansas allows poll watchers as young as 14.
— Massachusetts has no requirements beyond saying watchers cannot disrupt voter access or be disorderly.
— West Virginia bans poll watchers entirely.
You can find out the poll watcher rules in your state by searching the internet.
