EAC paired January poll-worker recruitment with voter preparation

The Election Assistance Commission called for Americans to become poll workers on January 27, 2026, through its biennial Help America Vote Day initiative. The agency linked the appeal to persistent recruitment difficulties. Citing its 2024 election-administration survey, it said more than 772,000 workers served in that general election, while 48% of jurisdictions described recruiting as very or somewhat difficult. ^[1]

The announcement outlined the practical work behind the request. Responsibilities can include preparing polling locations, greeting voters, checking registrations and distributing ballots. Workers may also demonstrate voting equipment and explain procedures. Both duties and pay depend on the jurisdiction, the EAC said. It directed prospective workers to HelpAmericaVote.gov or their local election office for information about serving in their communities. ^[1]

The initiative also encouraged voters to review their registration and prepare for voting. Alongside recruitment, the agency pointed to its six-part Be Election Ready video series, which covers the process from registration through planning to vote. Full videos run about two minutes, and shorter versions run 30 seconds. The EAC described the material as shareable by election offices and civic organizations. ^[1]

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