States Launch Recruitment Drives for National Poll Worker Day

The U.S. Election Assistance Commission observed National Poll Worker Recruitment Day on August 11 to address staffing shortages ahead of the November 3 General Election. State and local officials launched various initiatives to attract volunteers to manage polling stations and verify voter eligibility.

Frank LaRose, the Ohio Secretary of State, announced a $1 million grant for county boards of elections to support recruitment and training. His office is utilizing a Defend Democracy Toolkit to partner with nonprofits, businesses, and schools. The drive aims to support a contested ballot that includes a U.S. Senate special election, a gubernatorial race, and all 15 U.S. House districts. Ohio poll workers receive compensation for training and service, typically earning between $100 and $200.

In Indiana, St. Joseph County Clerk Amy Rolfes opened in-person and online applications, specifically targeting veterans and 16- to 17-year-olds through the Hoosier Hall Pass program. The latter offers $160 for election day service. Applications are sorted by political party affiliation for vetting before nominations are sent to the county election board.

Other efforts include the New Mexico Secretary of State's office, which launched an online interest form for county clerks, and the Civic Trust, which is expanding its Civic Time Off program to encourage employees to volunteer.