US presidential election 2024: Do you want to be a poll worker? Here's what you need to do

It is election season in the United States (US)- millions of Americans will cast their vote to elect the new president who will lead the country for the next four years. 

The top contenders in this election are Donald Trump (Republican Party) and Kamala Harris (Democratic Party). To ensure that the election goes smoothly, poll workers become an essential requirement.

According to the United States Election Assistance Commission (EAC), numerous citizens dedicate themselves "to sustaining the backbone of democracy - our election process."

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"The EAC encourages those interested in becoming poll workers at the polls on Election Day," the EAC's website adds.

What is a poll worker?

According to the EAC, poll workers are critical to the success of an election.

"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 and can help provide a positive and smooth voting experience for all," the commission says. 

What are the duties of a poll worker?

The EAC says that while specific duties and compensation vary depending on location, poll workers are the face of the election office during voting.

"Most jurisdictions task election workers with setting up and preparing the polling location, welcoming voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots," according to the commission's website.

Poll workers are also responsible for helping ensure voters understand the voting process by demonstrating how to use voting equipment and explaining voting procedures. 

How to become a poll worker?

So how do you sign up to become a poll worker? Please use the lookup tool below to find information on being a poll worker in your community.

The lookup tool will enable you to find information about the requirements, hours, pay, training, and more. 

The EAC has published a "Poll Worker Preparedness Checklist" that would assist poll workers in preparing for election day.

"The checklist can help poll workers feel ready for Election Day and make them feel more confident as they prepare to serve their community," the commission says.