It's your turn to be a poll worker

By Robin Carnahan

If you voted in the Aug. 8 primary election, you probably saw some new voting equipment in your polling place. These new machines are the result of changes in federal law that went into effect recently.

Overall, the elections ran smoothly, and most people seemed to like the new voting systems. Efficient, well-run elections don't just happen automatically. They happen because people across Missouri pitch in and help by taking time out of their busy schedules to serve as poll workers on Election Day.

Earlier this year, my office launched Missouri's first statewide poll-worker recruitment effort. "It's Your Turn. Be a Poll Worker" is a partnership with businesses, universities and colleges and other organizations to encourage new people to sign up to serve as poll workers.

You may not hear a lot about poll workers, but they are an essential part of running an election. I always say that poll workers are where the rubber meets the road on Election Day. They are the people who make our elections work by checking in registered voters, answering questions and making sure that everyone who is eligible is given the opportunity to vote.

I am grateful for every Missourian who serves his country and community as a poll worker on Election Day. Poll workers do a tremendous job of helping ensure the integrity and fairness of our elections.

But with the introduction of the new voting systems, we need more people to get involved, particularly folks who are comfortable with the new technology and who can help voters get comfortable too.

Poll workers are needed in every part of our state. To qualify as a poll worker, you must:

1. Be registered to vote in Missouri.

2. Not be a candidate on the ballot or have a close relative on the ballot.

3. Be interested in helping your community.

Signing up couldn't be easier. Simply go to our Web site www.sos.mo.gov/pollworker/, call (800) 669-8683, or contact your local election authority. If you are a college student, a recent graduate or you happen to use a computer regularly in your job or at home, I hope you'll consider being a poll worker. It's a great way to make a difference in your community and put your skills to use.

It's your turn. Be a poll worker.

Robin Carnahan is Missouri's secretary of state.