Idaho veterans meet with election officials to recruit poll workers

Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane presents at a veteran election poll worker recruitment event. (Courtesy of the Idaho Secretary of State's Office.)

Idaho election officials on Thursday met with active military members, veterans and their families about how to serve as election poll workers.

The poll worker recruitment and kick-off event was held by Vet the Vote, a national campaign seeking to recruit veterans and military family members to become poll workers. The group partnered with Idaho-based veterans organization Mission43 and Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane, according to a news release.

“Idaho’s veterans and military members have shown immense dedication to our nation, and they have the skills to make a significant impact at home as well,” McGrane said in the release. “By serving as poll workers, they can help safeguard the integrity of the voting process.”

Ben Keiser, co-founder and executive chairman of the nonprofit We the Veterans , said in a news release that Vet the Vote was thrilled to work with Mission43, along with McGrane and Ada County Clerk Trent Tripple, “in educating and encouraging veterans to further serve their community and country.”

“Today’s gathering illustrates how Boise’s veteran community can help address the shortage of poll workers our nation faces. Veterans are uniquely qualified to meet this moment and help get more people involved in the election process,” Keiser said.

Idaho’s 2024 general election is Nov. 5.

How do I become a poll worker in Idaho?

Find applications to become a poll worker in Idaho counties online , at voteidaho.gov/become-an-election-worker/ .

There are few requirements to become a poll worker, which include being a U.S. citizen, being at least age 16 and being able to read and write in English, the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office says.

Before election day, workers receive training.

Responsibilities for poll workers include setting up and closing polling places, along with helping voters.

Election day work is expected to last 14 hours, including work before polls open and after they close. Polls open at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

Daily pay varies by county and position, according to the Secretary of State’s website.

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