Ohio’s top elections official is urging Ohioans to step up and help run the polls ahead of the May 5 primary election, warning that a smooth Election Day depends on having enough trained workers in place.
Secretary of State Frank LaRose has issued a statewide call for poll workers, asking eligible residents to sign up through their county boards of elections to help staff precincts, assist voters and ensure ballots are cast and counted properly. He has framed the appeal as a matter of civic responsibility, saying serving at the polls is a direct way to support neighbors and protect the integrity of Ohio’s election system.
Poll workers are typically responsible for setting up voting equipment, checking in voters, issuing ballots and helping troubleshoot issues throughout Election Day. Many counties offer training sessions ahead of time and provide compensation for both the training and the work on Election Day. Local election officials say recruiting enough workers is especially important in a primary, when turnout can be uneven and staffing gaps are harder to predict.
LaRose’s office has been promoting a series of initiatives aimed at boosting participation, including partnerships with employers and community organizations that encourage people to “give a day” to work the polls. Those efforts also target students, veterans and professionals who can receive certain benefits, such as community service or continuing education credit, in exchange for serving.
While the focus now is on shoring up the poll worker roster, state and local officials are also reminding Ohioans about key election deadlines. Voter registration for the May 5 primary closes on April 6, meaning new voters and those who need to update their name or address must do so by that date to be eligible to cast a ballot. Residents can check their registration status and find more information about where and how to vote through their county board of elections or the state’s official election website.