Poll Watchers

Poll watchers are authorized representatives of a party or candidate allowed inside the polling place on Election Day. Typically, poll watchers are provided with a list of party or candidate supporters, and they listen for names of voters as they appear to vote.

By marking known supporters off their lists, they can assist party or campaign officials in estimating how their candidates are doing in particular precincts.

Other poll watchers may be assigned by their candidate or party to observe the opening or closing of the polls.