Volunteer
Hennepin County hires election judges to operate our polls and process our ballots on Election Day.
This year, we are facing a shortage of election judges as a result of COVID-19. Help us guarantee we have the staff necessary to protect and preserve our election process.
What is an election judge?
Election judges are community members hired by Hennepin County to operate our polling places and count ballots on Election Day. Their work consists of one evening of paid training and at least one paid shift on Primary or General Election Day.
Who can be an election judge?
Hennepin County stipulates that any eligible Minnesota voter can apply to be an Election judge as long as they can read, write, and speak English. Students who are 16 or 17-years-old may apply to become trainee elections judges. These are also paid positions.
How do I sign-up?
You can sign-up to be an election judge by visiting the Hennepin County website and submitting an online election judge form. Once you have submitted this form, an election official may contact you to complete an election judge application, schedule your training, and assign you to a polling place.
What if I have work or school?
Employers must give you time off to be an election judge without reducing your pay. This is dependent on you 1) notifying your employer in writing at least 20 day prior to Election Day and 2) attaching a copy of your schedule and pay rate form (supplied by the jurisdiction that hires you to be a judge) to the written notice. Trainee judges may miss school to be a trainee election judge as long as they are in good academic standing and get permission from their parents and school.
Is it safe?
Elections judges are essential to the safe and fair operation of our democracy. However, we understand that COVID-19 may make volunteers nervous about their own and others health and safety while serving.
The Minnesota Secretary of State has committed to providing election judges with the masks, disinfectants, and other supplies as well as implementing the social distancing practices needed to keep volunteers and voters healthy.
Resources:
2020 Election Judge Guide (PDF)
Still have questions? Check out our Voting FAQs page or contact our office at 612-348-3526 or bill.emory@hennepin.us