Presidential Election: Election Officers Sought For Prince William County's 100+ Precincts

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — Presidential elections tend to get more voter turnout, but it requires people willing to work at the polls to help them run smoothly.

Prince William County, the second most populous county in Virginia, put out a call for election officers for the Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 general election. The November election in the county will include congressional and presidential elections.

"Elections wouldn't happen without people to run them," said Thalia Simpson, spokesperson for the Prince William County Office of Elections. "Our office only has 16 full-time employees, so with 103 polling places in Prince William County, our election officers are literally what allows this to work."

The Office of Elections is seeking applicants now to provide time for training before November's election. Election officers set up the precinct for the election, check in voters, distribute ballots and provide general assistance on Election Day. The position pays $200 for one day, and Spanish speakers receive a $25 bonus. Election officers also get an "American Hero" T-shirt and a commemorative pin.

To be eligible, election officer applicants must be registered voters who don't hold elected office or work for an elected official, attend all required training and be able to travel to their assigned precinct.

Gerry Clemente is one of the county's longtime election officers, having served precinct 509 in the Occoquan District for over 10 years.

"It makes for a long but rewarding day, and I see familiar faces year after year. I feel that it's important to perform this civic duty," said Clemente.

Interested applicants should submit applications by Aug. 2 to be eligible for the presidential election. For more information, visit wcvotes.org/electionofficer.

SEE ALSO: Presidential Primary 2024: Voter Guide In Prince William Co., Manassas