Minnesota Needs Election Judges

Know Some Bright Kids (Like Your Grandchildren) Who Might Want to Apply?

Contributor: Wy Spano

Seniors have always made up the vast majority of Minnesota’s election judges. They’re usually retired, so they don’t mind taking a whole day out of their lives. And they don’t mind the $10 an hour pay. What with training time and the 16 hour election day, pay can get up to $200 or more. And it’s seen as a public service, not a job.

This November election presents another problem, however. The coronavirus likes seniors the best.  80% of the people who die from COVID-19 in the U.S. are seniors.

Which means that seniors are less likely to apply for the job than in previous elections. That may work out, since a huge increase in mail-in voting is coming and there won’t be as many  people physically at the polls this year. But it could not work out, and many jurisdictions might be without necessary election judges.

One thought about election judges: youngsters 16-17 can apply; they don’t have to be old enough to vote. Serious youngsters who can stay on task most of the day should feel free to apply.

So if you have some bright grandkids or young acquaintances whose parents might encourage this sort of behavior, let your counties know.

Counties will be hyper vigilant throughout the election, doing everything possible to avoid transmission in this difficult period.  Yet, there’s still a small risk.  For people under 30, the risk is very small, but it’s still there for those who aren’t careful.

You can find out how to apply here.

*Restoring American Democracy