Who are these people?

W

This blog is part of a set of occasional entries that come from Chris’s and my service as election judges. Political thoughts, but NOT partisan….

You might have wondered about the people who are serving as election judges in the upcoming general election. These few observations….

Where we live, our County Clerk leads a governmental agency that’s exemplary in running efficient and honest elections. The county’s significant investment in new election technology has yielded good results. Ballots are secure and voting sites are readily available. The process for voting, tabulation and verification has been thoroughly vetted for its transparency and fraud-free elements. The Clerk’s philosophy and commitment is voter-centered in every way. Her staff members know what they’re doing.

But what about the thousands of “ordinary citizens” who have decided to work as election judges? What about their qualifications? Their motivations, and their intentions?

In my experience, the folks who serve as election judges are worthy of respect and thanks. Primarily retired citizens, they bring to their work a variety of employment backgrounds, life experiences, leadership skills and political leanings. Many of them have worked as judges for years. Whether seasoned or new workers, they have recently undergone hands-on training in the technologies and processes of voting. They’re competent, intelligent and committed to this manifestation of our democracy. Some carry out their responsibilities because it’s part of their patriotism, their devotion to ideals that transcend partisanship. A good share of them are also people of faith, seeing these tasks as part of their engagement with the world God so surely loves! They’re honorable, honest and in these times, courageous. They offer their best selves to voters. They’re our neighbors!

This invitation to you: When you vote this November, be grateful for these people—the county workers and the election judges—and offer them your respectful thanks.

Because you’ve voted, they’ll thank you back….

 

To receive these entries when they are posted, go to the upper right hand corner of the top banner and click on the three dots or parallel lines. Scroll down to the subscription form and enter your information.)

About the author

Bob Sitze

BOB SITZE has filled the many years of his lifework in diverse settings around the United States. His calling has included careers as a teacher/principal, church musician, writer/author, denominational executive staff member and meat worker. Bob lives in Wheaton, IL.

Add Comment

By Bob Sitze

Bob Sitze

BOB SITZE has filled the many years of his lifework in diverse settings around the United States. His calling has included careers as a teacher/principal, church musician, writer/author, denominational executive staff member and meat worker. Bob lives in Wheaton, IL.

Recent Posts

Blog Topics

Archives

Get in touch

Share your thoughts about the wonder of older years—the fullness of this time in life—on these social media sites.

Receive Updates by Email

* indicates required