Spanberger: We need poll workers for Election Day, now more than ever

If ever was there a good time for the governor’s office to put out a presser about how we need poll workers for Election Day, today – hours after Donald Trump called in to a MAGA online broadcast to signal his openness to declaring a national emergency ahead of the 2026 midterms – would be the day.

“We have some of the most talented and experienced election staff in the nation working at our polls. Ahead of our upcoming elections, I am encouraging more committed Virginians who would like to serve their communities to do so in this deeply meaningful way,” the press release quoted Gov. Abigail Spanberger saying.

Methinks they could be more forceful in the messaging.

I mean, even Chuck Schumer gets it.

“Donald Trump wants to take over American elections. Senate Democrats are prepared to combat his unprecedented, illegal efforts at every turn. Your vote belongs to you. We will ensure it stays that way,” Schumer, the milquetoast Senate Minority Leader, said today of the latest Trump election threat.

Spanberger, as we know, likes to play things down the middle.

At least somebody on the team thought to put out a release on what is National Poll Worker Recruitment Day.

Odd, isn’t it, making a random-ass day in early August National Poll Worker Recruitment Day?

The people who work the polls from early in the morning until late into the evening on Election Day have to come from somewhere.

This year, these poor souls – OK, so, they get paid, but not nearly enough – not only have to get up before the crack of dawn to open up our voting precincts, but they’re likely going to have to stare down ICE agents dressed as video game soldiers of war trying to nose in every time a person of color tries to do their civic duty, and be prepared to fight the goons off to keep them from taking off with the voting machines before the counting is done.

I’m not being a help here, am I?

“Virginians have an opportunity to serve their community in a tremendously impactful way,” Secretary of Administration Traci J. Deshazor said. “Serving as an Officer of Election is a rewarding experience that allows people to take that extra step in strengthening and safeguarding our democracy.”

There, that’s better.

“Our Commonwealth relies on the service of thousands of Virginians every year who sign up to work at our polls,” Commissioner of Elections Steven Koski said. “This support is critical for our local registrars and electoral boards to ensure our elections are run well.”

Indeed!

Those interested in serving as Officers of Election can click here to find additional information and complete the online application.