Tuesday, April 1 marks an important day in Wisconsin, as the state will come together for a series of important elections. The statewide questions concern the next member of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, the next head of the Department of Public Instruction, and a referendum of requiring voters ID on Election Day. Additionally, a series of smaller, localized elections for offices such as school board and circuit court judges will be decided. The importance of this election can’t be understated. However, none of it would happen without poll workers.
A poll worker, which can also be referred to as an election inspector, helps take care of all of the tasks necessary to hold safe and fair elections. Usually each polling place requires three to seven poll workers, and one chief inspector. Poll workers have many important duties such as:
- Issuing ballots to registered voters
- Registering voters
- Monitoring voting equipment
- Answering questions about how to properly use voting equipment
- Counting votes
In addition to poll workers, there may also be one greeter at the polling location to help guide and welcome voters. There may also be more election registration officials who primarily assist with aiding in the new registration of voters. Under Wis. Stat. s. 7.30(2), poll workers must be able to read and write in English. This measure allows them to successfully carry out their duties. Poll workers have several other requirements in order to work in that position. For example, they must live in the county where the polling place is located. The Wisconsin Elections Commission also recommends that poll workers should be good communicators and have fine clerical skills, traits which are beneficial for this role. Anyone who is a candidate on the ballot at that polling place can’t be a poll worker.
Before Election Day, poll workers are typically required to attend a training class, which gives them the important details of their work. Any necessary training is fully provided by the municipality. On Election Day, poll workers are legally allowed to take a day of unpaid leave from their job with seven days’ notice ahead of time.
Many poll workers enjoy the position, recognizing it as an important way to help do their civic duty and serve their community. Poll workers also help keep elections safe with their management and transparency. Elections are a key part of American democracy, and poll workers keep that in tact!
