VIGO Co., Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — As the November general election draws nearer, poll workers are being sought after. The need was the same for Indiana’s primary election in June and many people, like Gretchen Etling, stepped up.
She said for her, it was a chance to learn more about the voting process.
“It was kind of exciting to kind of be behind the scenes of working the polls because you go and vote. You kind of don’t realize all that’s going on,” she said.
In Vigo county, 40 percent of registered voters are predicted to cast ballots in November. The clerk’s office is looking for at least 100 workers.
“We like to have as many as possible. We like to include for any kind of emergencies that may come up. Someone that may sign up that can’t,” said Vigo County Chief Deputy Clerk LeAnna Moore.
In both Vigo and Knox counties, some have chosen not to work the polls due to COVID-19 concerns.
“The average age of a poll worker in the state of Indiana is 72 years of age. And that’s just the prime demographic of those who need to be cautious because of this pandemic.” said Knox County Clerk David Shelton.
Shelton said while poll workers of older age are still coming out to help, he’s also looking to schools to fill the gaps.
“They have a lot of students that are either 18 or will be 18 by election day. And we’re going to try to utilize them as well,” Shelton said.
Poll workers will be trained and get paid for what Gretchen Etling says, is a rewarding time.
“I recommend just doing it, reaching out and seeing how you can get involved,” she said.
