Hastings Public SchoolsISD #200

ELECTION JUDGE INFORMATION

What is an election judge?

An election judges are individuals who handle all aspects of voting at the polling place to ensure that all election procedures are handled properly and assist voters in the voting process. 

Who can apply?

Those interested in applying to be an election judge must meet the following criteria:
- Resident of the United States
- Minnesota resident for at least 20 days by the time of the election (Nov. 7, 2023)
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Able to read, write, and speak English

Note that relatives cannot serve together in the same precinct or polling location at the same time.  A relative is defined as a spouse, parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling, or stepsibling.  In addition, relatives of any candidate, or anyone who temporarily or permanently lives in the same house as a candidate, cannot serve where the candidate is on the ballot.

Can High Schoolers serve as judges?

Yes!  Students either 16 or 17 years of age can work as election judges.

Students will receive the same training and pay as other election judges.  They will be expected perform many of the same election duties, however, they aren't allowed to work past 10:00 PM.

Student qualifications:
- Must be 16 or 17 years old before Election Day (Nov. 7, 2023)
- US Citizen in good academic standing
- Parental permission 
- School permission 

Basic Election Judge Duties Description

• Open and close the polls (judges may work in shifts from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm or later)
• Take responsibility for all election materials
• Ensure qualified voters are permitted to vote only once
• Distribute ballots
• Help voters requiring assistance
• Maintain order in the voting place throughout the day
• Register new voters at the polling site
• Process absentee ballots
• Obtain the results after the polls are closed
• Certify the precinct election results