Poll Workers Needed In Lead Up To November Election

The West Virginia Secretary of State is asking for volunteers heading into the 2024 General Election. 

Secretary Mac Warner has teamed up with the county clerks, the U.S. Elections Assistance Commission and other states for National Poll Worker Recruitment Day on Aug. 1.

Having an adequate number of poll workers to staff polling places on and before Election Day can ensure voters receive the assistance they need at the polls. Currently there are 1,704 voting precincts throughout West Virginia, which requires more than 8,000 poll workers. 

West Virginia law states that the county executive committee for each of the two major political parties may nominate one qualified person for each team of poll clerks for the election.

“Poll workers are critical to facilitating the election process and instilling confidence in voters,” Warner said. “To ensure that we have accessible, safe and accurate elections, we need to fully staff every polling place with trained poll workers.”

Specific duties vary by location, but election workers usually set up and prepare the polling location, welcome voters, verify voter registrations and issue ballots. Poll workers also help ensure voters understand the voting process by demonstrating how to use voting equipment and explaining voting procedures. 

Poll workers in West Virginia must be registered voters. Individuals who volunteer to be poll workers in their home county are paid an amount set by the county commission for their services. 

“Being a paid poll worker is a great way to participate in our democracy right here in West Virginia,” Warner said. “The most secure way to cast a confidential election ballot, free and clear of any undue influence or intimidation, is to do so at a polling place staffed by trained poll workers selected by the political parties. Ensuring there are enough poll workers to assist voters is always a priority for the Secretary of State’s Office and the county clerks.”

Registered West Virginia voters who would like to learn more about becoming a poll worker for the upcoming Nov. 5 General Election should complete the Poll Worker Application on or before Aug. 1.

For more information on elections in West Virginia, including voter registration and absentee ballots, contact your local county clerk or visit the West Virginia Secretary of State’s website at GoVoteWV.com.