Poll workers needed in Lee and Russell counties as Election Day approaches

OPELIKA, Alabama (WTVM) – In just three months, Americans will go to the polls to cast their votes in November.

A crucial element of this electoral process are the dedicated poll workers who ensure that everything runs smoothly.

“Alabama's election process is a proven system,” said Judge Harden of the Russell County Probate Court. “It is truly a model for the country.”

There are only 69 days left until the general election in November. In all 50 states, county governments are setting up teams of poll workers to monitor polling stations on election day.

Judge Harden says there are no changes to Alabama's election process because their method has never failed.

“We are doing our best to make sure that everyone has the right to participate in a clean, honest and fair election … that everyone knows they can trust our system, they can trust our law enforcement and that we will enforce that,” Harden said.

Carol and Ken Story, longtime residents of Lee County, have worked as poll workers for many years. Through their firsthand experience, they developed a strong belief in the integrity of Alabama's election process.

“From what you read and hear from other states, it’s probably one of the better ones in the country,” Carol Story said.

According to the story, not a single ballot can be missing before the results are published.

“Everything has to be taken into account, everything has to be right and above board before you can leave,” Story said.

According to Story, they believe that voting and working during elections is a civic duty.

“We enjoyed it. We enjoyed seeing people come in and being able to greet them. We saw people we hadn't seen in a long time, but we did it because we were supposed to,” she says.

Judge Harden says it is imperative to study each candidate before voting.

“You can look closely at the background of the candidates, their political views and their opinions, and I say to people: vote with your heart for who you think represents your family's interests,” the judge said.

Judge Harden says there is still time to apply to be a poll worker by contacting the Russell County Probate Office. To apply in Lee County, apply through the Alabama Secretary of State's website.

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