By Katie Northcott, News Director
On Wednesday, May 13, Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett issued the following press release:
Secretary of State Tre Hargett today encouraged eligible Tennesseans to consider serving as poll workers in preparation for the August 6, 2026 State and Federal Primary and County General Elections and the November 3, 2026 State and Federal General Election.
“Poll workers are essential to the success and integrity of Tennessee elections, and I encourage all eligible Tennesseans to consider serving their communities during the 2026 election cycle,” said Secretary Hargett. “These dedicated individuals help ensure every voter has a smooth, secure, and efficient voting experience.”
During early voting and on Election Day, poll workers perform a variety of important duties at polling locations across Tennessee. Responsibilities may include greeting voters, checking voter registration information, answering questions, explaining voting procedures, assisting voters as needed, and helping process ballots at the close of polls. Poll workers are compensated for their service and receive all required training prior to Election Day.
Qualifications to Serve as a Poll Worker
To be eligible, individuals must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be a registered voter if 18 years of age or older
- Be able to read and write the English language
- Not be a candidate on the ballot or a close relative of a candidate
Government Employees Eligible to Serve
The following government employees may also serve as poll workers:
- City, County, and Metro employees (unless employed directly under the supervision of an elected official appearing on the ballot)
- State of Tennessee employees
- Federal employees, subject to approval and guidance from their Human Resources Department
“By serving, citizens can help voters in their own community confidently cast their ballots while reinforcing the transparency, accuracy, and security of Tennessee elections,” said Coordinator of Elections Mark Goins.
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