I voted for Obama already. I usually don't vote early, but this year I decided the best thing for me to do on election day is to work the polls. I'm happy I made the decision, even though I'll miss all the Nov. 4 punditry.
Yesterday was training day. I was very happy with the training, most of the questions, and willingness to answer questions in depth.
Did you catch the 'most of the questions' parameter? This primary race has been an eye-opener for many of us. People we NEVER thought would vote for an African-American Democrat are enthusiastically embracing his candidacy. At the same time, zealots on the right have resorted to open violence and hatred of a depth I haven't seen since the 60s. The fear campaign seems to have failed - in the larger part - for the Republicans. However, it is still there and was most apparent in the questioning of one of the poll workers. I had pegged this guy as definitely a Republican, he had demanded that he receive his poll-worker binder ahead of time so he could study it, had that tough, white-guy, tunnel-vision sort of swagger. I want to share his questions with you.
'What if you feel someone is attempting to commit voter fraud?'
He was informed, much to his chagrin, that anyone registered (listed in the poll-binder) can vote. 'Ask if they have picture ID, if they don't they must sign an affidavit swearing to their citizenship and identity before they vote. There are codes next to some names on the list which must be referred to the help desk for information.'
'What if you just have a gut feeling that they're trying to pull one off?'
'You need to follow the rules laid down for election workers. There will be people from three distinct voter rights groups that will be there to challenge voters.'
I then raised my hand. 'Is it true that challengers are not allowed to use the list of foreclosures to challenge voter's rights, if so, what do we do if we suspect they are?' I knew the answer already, but wanted it out there.
'Challengers may NOT use the list of foreclosures. If a challenger is using a list that you suspect is based on foreclosures, call the central election office.' Watching my fellow poll-workers, I knew the ones who smiled and nodded were Democrats.' Shortly after, Mr. Swagger left.
I found this interesting, knowing that 'voter fraud' fears had inspired some Repubs to work the polls, and from the reaction to my question, that 'voter caging' had done the same for Democrats. It certainly did for me, along with working the poll at an historic election.
I would expect that there are plenty of poll workers to go around this election, but the turnout will be huge. Check you local clerk's office to see if they're confident they have enough staff. If not, please offer to work the polls -- ensure that everyone has a chance to vote.