Sec. of State Merrill issues guidance on poll watchers

Ahead of what many expect to be one of the highest turnout elections in modern history, Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill is providing guidance to those wishing to serve as a poll watcher on Election Day.

Poll watchers are members of a political party who are allowed inside a precinct while voters cast their ballots to monitor the proceedings. Political parties at the county level nominate poll watchers, who are encouraged to bring proof of their appointment to the polls on Election Day.

Watchers are not allowed to disturb voters, wear any campaign materials, or do any type of persuasion, campaigning, or influencing while at the precinct.

The secretary of state advises that “the name of each poll watcher shall be submitted in writing by the county executive committee or nominees for office to the polling place inspector, noting their appointment.”

Per the secretary of state’s office, the list of what poll watchers are allowed to:

1. Observe the conduct of the election.
2. Monitor the preliminaries of opening the polls.
3. Remain at the polling place throughout the election until the results of the election have been posted and the voting machines are sealed, as provided by law.
4. Observe the ballots as they are counted.
5. Observe absentee ballots and affidavits when they are called during the count.
6. See all oaths administered and signed, the record of assisted voters, the list of qualified voters, the poll lists, and any and all records made in connection with the election.

According to the secretary of state’s office, the numbers to call to be a poll watcher are as follows:

Democratic Party — (334) 262-2221.
Republican Party — (205) 212-5900.
Libertarian Party — (205) 328-8683

If any voter, poll watcher or otherwise, observes voter interference, intimidation or manipulation they can call (334) 242-7210 or go to StopVoterFraudNow.com to report it.

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: [email protected] or on Twitter @HenryThornton95