Become an Election Judge

This takes people resources, volunteers to be trained, and to serve.
Election judges are temporary, paid employees of local election officials who are trained to handle all aspects of voting at the polling place. Election judges represent one of the major political parties in the state.

Election judges are vital to efficient and honest elections. Election judges proudly conduct elections with accuracy, integrity and dignity. You can join this team of dependable and caring individuals who help ensure this basic right of U.S. citizenship: to vote in fair and free elections.

  • Each presidential primary precinct is required to have a minimum of three appointed election judges.
  • Like all elections held in the State of Minnesota, election judges are appointed to polling places at least 25 days before the election (unless additional workers are needed). Apart from Head Judges, you may serve for all or parts of the Election Day, at the discretion of the local jurisdiction.
  • State law allows you to receive time off from work to be an election judge.

There is a 3 step process to being a Republican Election Judge

  1. Submit your information to the form below to show interest in serving as an election judge by April 15, 2025 to serve in the fall as a Election Judge for the MN Republican Party.
  2. Submit your application to the MN Secretary of State depending on your city or county.
  3. Apply to your city or township so they know you are available and ready to serve. For example, here is the page for how Carver county recommends applying.

Any person who resides in and is eligible to vote in the county where they serve is eligible to be an election judge. You must be able to read, write and speak English and attend a training class. Judges must state a political party preference.

16 and 17-year-old students can work as election judge trainees, receive training, and be paid for their work. It’s a great way to learn about elections and voting, and earn cash at the same time!

The governing body of the municipality or township appoints election judges for precincts in their jurisdiction. Persons interested in becoming an election judge should contact their local political party chair to be included on the party’s list of potential election judges. Preference is given to individuals who have registered with the parties.

We need you to help, participate in all aspects of our elections.

  • Apply to be an election judge and affirm your party affiliation (fill in form below). 
  • Request to serve on the county absentee ballot board.
  • Participate in other election process steps- like attending the post-election review.
  • Encourage everyone you know to vote.
  • Understand the importance of our voting history.
  • A great website to visit is the Chanhassen Election Judge Page– with lots of details about what is involved.