Golden State Today

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., has invited Californians to celebrate National Poll Worker Recruitment Day by signing up to serve as poll workers for the upcoming November 5, 2024, General Election.

Poll workers are responsible for setting up and closing polling places, assisting voters in understanding their rights, and protecting the integrity of ballots and voting equipment.

“Poll workers are essential to the administration of free and fair elections,” Weber stated. “We couldn’t do it without them. I encourage Californians to apply on our website or by contacting their county elections office.”

To serve as a poll worker, individuals must be United States citizens or legal permanent residents and attend a training session.

“California high school students may also serve as poll workers,” Weber added. “Students will have an opportunity to learn how elections are run and take an active role in making our democracy work.”

High school students interested in serving must meet specific criteria:

- Be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident.

- Be at least 16 years old on Election Day.

- Attend a public or private high school.

- Have at least a 2.5 grade point average.

- Obtain permission from their parents and school.

- Attend a training session.