OSKALOOSA — As the 2024 General Election approaches, State of Iowa and Mahaska County Election Office and the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) today announced that August 1, 2024 will be designated as the fourth annual National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. Launched in 2020, this initiative seeks to address the ongoing poll worker shortage, promote civic participation and volunteerism, and ensure the integrity and security of the elections in 2024 and beyond.
“Election workers are critical to ensuring accessible and accurate elections,” said Mahaska County Election Deputy Michelle Kent. “We are excited to recognize and participate in National Poll Worker Recruitment Day to help bring awareness to the nationwide poll worker shortage ahead of the election in November and to help inspire civic engagement and volunteerism to encourage people to sign up to serve their community.”
Poll worker responsibilities typically include activities such as setting up polling places, greeting voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. Poll workers also assist voters in understanding the voting process by demonstrating the use of voting equipment and explaining voting procedures. Local election authorities oversee election staff and poll workers, including providing training before Election Day.
“Poll workers are essential to our voting process, playing a pivotal role in the success of our elections. Volunteering as a poll worker is an impactful way for Americans to serve their country and communities,” said EAC Chairman Ben Hovland. “The EAC aims to support state and local election officials in their recruitment efforts, address poll worker shortages, and engage new generations with National Poll Worker Recruitment Day.”
Despite many states expanding vote-by-mail and absentee voting options, millions of Americans, including voters with disabilities and those without reliable mail service, still depend on in-person voting. Ensuring sufficient poll workers are available on Election Day and during early voting periods is crucial for providing voters with the assistance they need and providing a smooth voting experience for all.
National Poll Worker Recruitment Day exemplifies civic engagement in elections, aiming to encourage potential poll workers to help America vote. Poll workers uphold our democratic system by enabling citizens to cast a free and confidential ballot to choose their representation.
For more information about National Poll Worker Recruitment Day and how to become an election worker please visit https://elections.mahaskacountyia.gov/ or HelpAmericaVote.gov.
