KENT COUNTY, Mich. — The new year is in full swing and it's time to start thinking about the upcoming elections.
Kent County said they are looking for more election workers as the implementation of early voting, passed by voters as part of Proposal 2 of 2022, has increased the need for more election workers.
Lisa Posthumus Lyons, Kent County Clerk, is inviting anyone with an interest in participating in the electoral process to apply for the role of Election Inspector.
"Ensuring integrity and security, and that every eligible voter is able to make their voice heard, are the greatest priorities in our elections. And Election Inspectors play a crucial role in the voting process," said Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons. "They are your friends and neighbors, the friendly faces guiding voters through the process, safeguarding the sanctity of our elections. Kent County has always been fortunate to have an abundance of dedicated Election Inspectors, but now we need more to join their ranks in this important public service."
A paid position, Election Inspectors are trained to work in the precincts on Election Day, process absentee ballots in absentee voter counting boards, or run early voting sites. Election Inspectors are both Republicans and democrats working under the direction of each jurisdiction's local clerk.
What Election Inspectors Do:
Assist voters at polling places during Early Voting and on Election Day
Verify voter information upon check-in at the voting location
Process absentee ballots in an Absentee Voter Counting Board
Ensure compliance with federal and state election laws
Uphold the security of the voting process and confidentiality of voters
Requirements for Election Inspectors
Eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to serve as election inspectors involve the following requirements:
must be a registered voter. However, those 16-18 years of age and a Michigan resident may also serve as additional inspectors,
must submit an Election Inspector application to their local clerk, and
cannot be a poll challenger, candidate, or member of a candidate’s immediate family, in that election where that candidate is appearing on the ballot.
State law requires at least (1) Election Inspector of both major parties to be present within a polling location.
Application Process
To apply, individuals may contact their local city or township clerk to fill out an application. In addition to their name, address, and date of birth, applicants must include their political party preference and qualifications to fill the position such as education or experience.
Training Sessions
Training sessions to become an Elections Inspector begin on January 16 and run through mid-February 2024. To sign up for one of Kent County’s trainings, visit here. Once hired, new Election Inspectors will be partnered with a veteran Election Inspector to become more comfortable with the process.
“With the Presidential Primary taking place on February 27, our need for additional Election Inspectors is now,” Lyons emphasized. “Please join us in this important work to deliver the secure, transparent, fair, and accurate elections Kent County voters know and deserve!"
Additional information on Election Inspectors, including the application form and County training schedule, is available on our website at KentCountyVotes.com.
