You may notice election observers or poll watchers at your polling place. It’s permitted by law to maintain transparency. Rules about them vary by state and local jurisdiction. However, they may not disrupt the election process or violate voter privacy.
Find the rules for your state by visiting the U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s guide to poll watchers found at https://www.eac.gov/election-officials/poll-watchers
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Who are the people observing at the polls? They are authorized individuals, permitted by law, to monitor the voting and counting process.
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What are the different rules? Depending on the state or jurisdiction they may be called observers, watchers, challengers, or monitors. All of them have to follow rules regarding their eligibility, what election activities they may observe, where they are permitted to stand.
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Want to know the details? Learn more about election observer rules where you live by checking out the following guide from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. eac.gov/election-officials/poll-watchers
