Top 6 reasons you should become a poll worker in Florida

Are you looking for a way to get involved in the electoral process? Here are some reasons why you should consider applying to be a poll worker.

Having enough poll workers on and before Election Day is key to providing voters with the assistance they need and ensure a positive and smooth voting experience, but that’s just one of many reasons to help out at your local polling station.

Responsibilities vary by location, but generally election workers are responsible for setting up and preparing the polling place, assisting voters, verifying voter registrations, issuing ballots, keeping equipment running, and handing out “I Voted” stickers.

Here are six great reasons to consider applying to be an election worker.

1. Learn more about the electoral process. By becoming a poll worker, you’ll get an inside look at how elections are conducted. You will also gain hands-on experience with the procedures and technology used to manage voting, whether you’re setting up the polling station, running voting equipment, or handing out ballots.

2. Contribute to the integrity of elections. By setting up polling stations, verifying voter identities, and ensuring that ballots are properly cast and counted, poll workers help prevent errors. Their help and assistance are vital to upholding the principles of free and fair elections by making sure that every eligible voter can participate without interference or intimidation.

3. Earn extra income. While pay varies by location and position, you could make anywhere from $100 to $400 per day on Election Day in Florida. You will also be compensated for time spent in training, working during the early voting period, and helping with pre-election set-up.

4. Support your community by offsetting the poll worker shortage. Many Florida counties face a shortage of poll workers, especially in recent years due to pandemic. Older adults, who traditionally make up a significant portion of poll workers, may no longer feel comfortable working the election because health concerns. When there’s a poll worker shortage, some crucial voting locations may even be closed. By becoming an election worker, you’ll help to ensure your community has the personnel it needs to keep polling sites open.

5. If you speak Spanish, you can help other Spanish-speakers make their voices heard. Nearly a quarter of all households in Florida speak Spanish as their primary language, so bilingual poll workers are especially sought out. It’s a wonderful way to support the Latinos in your community who may not be familiar with the voting process.

6. Play a key role in democracy. Your role in facilitating the vote is essential to ensuring that every ballot is counted. Many poll workers find great pride and satisfaction in knowing that they played a part in such an important civic event. 

Here’s what some past poll workers have said about their experience, according to the Polk County Supervisor of Elections:

“It is always exciting to work during a Presidential Election; I really enjoy working with my fellow Poll Workers.” – Beulah, Precinct 520

“I really feel like I have participated in the democratic process, plus it is wonderful meeting all the voters.” – Edward, Precinct 519

“I like working the polls because I enjoy my team and helping all the smiling voters.” – Michelle, Precinct 517

“I spent 27 years in the military defending your right to vote; NOW, I get out to make sure it counts.” – Robert, Precinct 250

To apply to be a poll worker, visit your county’s Supervisor of Elections website.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.

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