Every role in our election process is crucial to ensuring security. They may have different duties and various levels of authority, but the more all types of positions are filled by Americans who want honest elections, the better.

Serving as a poll watcher is one way you can participate in the election process, and thereby secure the election. 

So, what exactly is a poll watcher?

Poll watchers:

• Are inside their designated precinct while voting is happening.
• Silent watchers and observers who are not allowed to converse with the voters, workers or anyone else inside the precinct polling station (this is critical).
• Most often appointed by the local political party, but in some states this is not always the case. 
• Should an irregularity occur, the watcher is to step out of the precinct polling station and contact the group that appointed them to that position.
• Are volunteers and are not paid.
• Can work in shifts rather than the entire day in some areas.

This role requires focus and an attention to detail that is needed to catch any irregularities during the voting process, as well as self-discipline to follow the rules.

How do I become a poll watcher?

Poll watchers are usually appointed by the local political parties in that area. You are often required to go through a training process before your first shift. In some cases, there is a different entity that appoints poll watchers.

This role is critical and often overlooked by citizens looking to get involved in the political process. During an election cycle, a political party, or the entity that assigns poll watchers, will set up a system of communication that allows the watchers to communicate irregularities should they occur.

Often, there are not enough poll watchers to cover all precincts in any given election, and thus any problems or irregularities may go unnoticed. Or, if they are filled, in many instances they are filled by members of one political party or outside group, meaning there are no checks and balances.