What is a poll observer?
In New Hampshire, poll observers are individuals who may observe steps in the election process. Poll observers may be any member of the public who are at least 17 years old. They could also be members of political parties or nonpartisan groups, candidate representatives, or people from exit polling groups. Observers may challenge the eligibility of voters or the validity of ballots.
Why would a vote be challenged?
According to New Hampshire law, a challenge may only be asserted based on personal knowledge or probable cause that the challenged voter is ineligible. The challenge must be made by a signed affidavit, and the election moderator must determine that there is a legitimate basis for the challenge.
Sign up to become a poll observer!
Open Democracy New Hampshire is helping recruit and train nonpartisan poll observers across New Hampshire. (The election is Tuesday, Nov. 3!)
No experience necessary! All observers receive:
- Observer resources (a checklist, manual, badge, and lanyard).
- An official letter of introduction for town/city moderators.
- A live online training session, plus direct support from the team throughout Election Day.
Note: In New Hampshire, poll workers must be residents of the voting district they work in.
Here is Open Democracy’s link to sign up to become a poll observer.
Happy observing, Granite Staters!
