INDIANA – In recognition of National Poll Worker Recruitment Day, Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales asks Hoosiers to consider serving as Election poll workers.
“Poll workers are essential to ensuring our elections are a success,’ said Lawrence County Clerk Amy Voorhies.
Voorhies says those wanting to volunteer need to contact their party chairperson:
- Lawrence County Republican Party Chair: Heath Hawkins at 812-345-6881 or Email
- Lawrence County Democratic Party Chair: Clarice Guy at 812-329-0247 or Email
You can also contact the Lawrence County Voter Registration Office at 812-277-2036 and leave your name phone number and party affiliate.
High school students are also welcome to volunteer.
Poll workers will be needed for both early voting and Election Day.
There are two requirements to become a poll worker:
- You must be a registered voter and a resident of the county in which you wish to work
- You must be at least 18 years old (or 16/17 if participating in Hoosier Hall Pass)
In an effort to engage the next generation, requirements for 16 and 17-year-olds can be found here.
Poll workers earn up to $150 for their service, depending on the county. Many poll workers are tasked with duties such as setting up and preparing the polling location, welcoming voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. Poll workers are needed for the upcoming Municipal elections in November and for next year’s National, State, and County Primary and General Elections.
“Those volunteering need to understand that we must have a representative from both Democrat and Republican representatives to work most of the positions,” added Voorhies.
Statewide Indiana needs as many as 20,000 poll workers to administer efficient, trustworthy elections.
National Poll Worker Recruitment Day aims to encourage more people to become poll workers in their communities. National Poll Worker Recruitment Day is addressing the need for poll workers and inspiring greater civic engagement. National Poll Worker Recruitment Day is sponsored by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
“I’ve heard from election officials across Indiana and there’s certainly a strong push for more poll workers. Signing up to be a poll worker is a great opportunity to serve your community and our state. I want to especially recognize and thank all of the Hoosiers who have worked the polls this year and in years past, your dedication is appreciated,” said Secretary of State Diego Morales.
From months of discussions with county clerks, Secretary Morales has launched working groups that are currently underway. One of the groups is focused on poll worker recruitment and training.
People interested in signing up to be poll workers or learning more are encouraged to contact their local election office which can be found here.
