Poll watchers, sometimes referred to as “election observers,” are individuals who may observe steps in the election process. Each state has its laws and procedures on when and where observers can be present and who can observe the election.

Poll watchers may be members of organizations such as a political party or nonpartisan group, candidate representatives, international observers, exit polling groups, academics, or relevant federal and state agencies. Some states also allow members of the public to view election processes in person, though these rules also vary.  

The role of a poll watcher is to observe and monitor the election without violating voter privacy or disrupting the election. Poll watchers are different from challengers, though in some jurisdictions, poll watchers may challenge the eligibility of voters or the validity of ballots.

The following websites provide some examples of guidance from national, state-level, and local jurisdictions:

• Federal Poll Watcher Quick Start Guide
• Illinois
• Chicago

Please Contact us for more information and to server as a Poll Wacher on the Election.