The People Behind Election Day: Why the Poll Worker Shortage Matters to Your Community

What poll workers do, why communities need them, and how to get involved.

You don't have to run for office or canvass for a candidate to make a difference in our elections. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up to help your neighbors vote.

Poll workers are the people who greet you, check you in, and answer your questions at the polls. Without enough of them, polling locations can close and lines can grow long.

Not sure if poll working is for you or your network? We put together answers to some common questions and ideas for how you, as a trusted leader, can help make a difference.

What Do Poll Workers Do?

Election workers play a critical role, including:

•      Setting up and closing polling places

•      Checking in voters

•      Answering questions

•      Helping voters use the equipment and follow the proper procedures

It’s an important job, and in many places, it’s a paid position.

Why are Poll Workers So Important?

During each election, millions of Americans dedicate themselves to sustaining the backbone of democracy — our election process.

Think back to 2020. During the pandemic, election worker shortages led to polling place closures and long lines in several communities.

The shortage prompted a coalition of businesses and nonprofits to launch Power the Polls, a nonpartisan initiative with a goal of recruiting 250,000 new prospective poll workers before the presidential election.

The response was huge! More than 700,000 people signed up to help.

It’s a great example of what can happen when organizations work together to solve a community problem. And the need hasn’t gone away.

Nearly half of election jurisdictions reported difficulty recruiting poll workers for the 2024 general election, according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

With Election Day approaching and early voting already happening in many states, now is a good time to check and see if your county needs help.

How Can You Become a Poll Worker?

Good news! You don’t have to be an election expert to participate. From high school students to retired professionals, poll workers come from all walks of life.

Qualifications, the application process, and compensation vary by state and county. The first step is to determine if you’re eligible.

In Georgia: Visit the Georgia Secretary of State or apply directly at your county elections office.

In another state? Visit Power the Polls to learn more and sign up.

How Can Business and Community Leaders Help?

Here’s where you come in. As a leader, you know people who want to make a difference. They just need someone to show them how.

You don’t need to recruit hundreds of poll workers. Encouraging just a few people to get involved can make an impact.

1. Share the Opportunity
Take five minutes to share poll worker information with your network. Let them know that training is provided, many positions are paid, and they can contact their local elections office to learn more.

2. Make it a Team Effort
Encourage your employees, members, or congregation to sign up together. It’s a great bonding experience, while doing good. (Also, if relevant, also offer scheduling flexibility or volunteer time off for election work.)

As always, our team at In Good Company is here to help! Email us if you have any questions.