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I signed up to be a poll worker, but I never got assigned. What does that mean?
First, thank you for volunteering to be a part of America’s elections. Poll workers play a vital role in the election process and our ability to hold transparent, efficient, and accurate elections. There are numerous reasons why you might not have received a poll worker assignment for this election. States and jurisdictions have policies in place for assigning election workers, including making sure there are representatives from both major political parties participating. There also may be a greater need for bilingual poll workers that are being prioritized. Additionally, if you indicated you only wanted to work as a poll worker in your neighborhood, there might be opportunities further away that are still in need. It is important to double check your voter registration as well, make sure you are registered at your current residence.
Does that mean there is no longer a need?
In 2024, we have still seen a need for poll workers across the country, some locations reporting a greater need than others. Many poll workers are retirees and elderly who will continue to step away from volunteering as time goes on. Additionally, when speaking with some election administrators, we heard that off year elections (elections that are not congressional or presidential) are harder to staff, and are a great way to get started volunteering as an election worker.
What can I do next?
Talk to your local election office and find out what needs they may have coming in the future. Stay on the list, and offer to be available for other upcoming elections including runoff elections, special elections, and local elections that happen every year. Also, in some states, you can contact your affiliated political party and let them know you are interested in being appointed as a poll worker. Because election policies and procedures differ in each state, it’s important to ask your local election office direct questions about the process.