As people get older, they must remain physically active to prevent many of the health and mental issues that come with age. But regular physical activity does not have to be limited to vigorous exercise. Many people find ways to stay active by giving back to the community. It’s a great way to meet other people with shared interests and strengthens social bonds. A great opportunity to give back is just around the corner. Election season is here! And it’s never too early to register to vote and to get involved with the Florida election process in one of many roles. While casting votes in the primary and general elections is the most common way for seniors and retirees to contribute to the democratic process, many choose to volunteer to become poll workers. In fact, according to a Pew Research Center study of the 2018 General Election, approximately 58% of poll volunteers were 61 years of age or older. There is a tremendous need for volunteers to ensure election integrity is maintained across the nation and seniors can help by volunteering to volunteer for one of the numerous positions for the upcoming election. In Florida, a variety of assignments are available throughout Election Day, but there are also several opportunities in the days leading up to the election, including clerk, assistant clerk, machine manager, inspector, and precinct deputy. What Are the Responsibilities for Each Position?
Clerk – The clerk’s main responsibility is to oversee all operations at a polling location. In the days leading up to the election, the clerk must contact all workers, pick up supplies, and help to set up polling equipment, tables, and chairs. The clerk Is also responsible for verifying voter eligibility, updating addresses, administering provisional ballots, and transmitting ballot totals after the polls close.
Assistant Clerk – The assistant clerk reports directly to the clerk and serves as a backup for any of the other worker positions. He or she will also help set up voting equipment, work with the call center to verify voter eligibility, make sure all required forms are filled out correctly, and assist in closing down the polling location after the polls close. The assistant may also be assigned special duties by the clerk.
Machine Manager – This is a specialized role that requires technical responsibility. While each position requires some training before Election Day, people that apply for machine manager generally have prior technical experience. The machine manager’s main responsibility is to set up voting equipment and provide onsite technical support. In addition to setting up and taking down equipment, the manager is also responsible for transporting the ballots to a designated site after the polls close.
Inspector – The inspector’s main responsibility is to “check-in” voters through the use of an Electronic Voter Identification Device (EVID). The inspector is likely the first person voters will speak to upon arriving at a polling location and will verify voter eligibility, provide documentation so that a voter receives his or her ballot, and assist with the takedown activities at the end of the day. Precinct Deputy – The role of the precinct deputy is to maintain order at the polling location. The precinct deputy designates the “no political activity” outside of the polling location, distributes supplies on Election Day, and ensures the polling place is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In rare cases, the precinct deputy will have to inform law enforcement to help maintain order at a high traffic polling location. As you can see, the election process is a group effort with many overlapping responsibilities. But it’s certainly a great way to stay active and get involved in the community while ensuring election integrity. Poll workers are paid for each class they attend for their training, but the selection process can be competitive from one precinct to the next.
Election dates for 2022 are:
• August 23, 2022, for the Primary Election. The registration deadline is July 25, 2022.
• November 8, 2022, for the General Election. The registration deadline is October 11, 2022.
But it is never too early to send in your application to volunteer to work the election. Check with your county office for more information. Remember this is a great way to answer the call of civic duty and have fun while doing so! The team here at OurSeniors.Net aims to bring useful and entertaining information that enhances the quality of life for our senior and retiree communities. Check out our senior living magazine online, our Facebook page, or our quarterly senior lifestyle magazine for great content to help you and your loved ones lead happier and fuller lives.
