As Election Day approaches, Montgomery County Clerk Carole Weeks would like voters to understand the important distinction between poll challengers and poll watchers and who may be present during the election process.

Under Missouri law, individuals cannot simply enter a polling place and observe the election. Access to polling places is limited to those authorized by state law, including election judges, voters who are casting a ballot, election officials and others specifically authorized by statute.

Political parties (Central Committees) may appoint poll challengers in accordance with Missouri law. A poll challenger may observe election procedures and, if they believe a voter may not be qualified under Missouri law, may bring that concern to the election judges or the Election Authority. Challengers do not question voters directly, may not handle ballots or election materials and may not interfere with the voting process.

Missouri law also allows political parties to appoint poll watchers. Unlike challengers, poll watchers are generally assigned to observe the counting of votes, including absentee ballot counting where authorized by law. Their role is to observe the counting process and report concerns to election officials. They do not participate in conducting the election, question voters or handle election materials.

Election judges receive training to ensure elections are conducted fairly, accurately and impartially while protecting every eligible voter’s right to cast a ballot.

“Our goal is for every voter to have confidence in the election process,” Montgomery County Clerk Carole Weeks said. “Missouri law provides safeguards to ensure transparency while also protecting voters and maintaining order in the polling place.”

Anyone with questions about voting, voter registration, absentee voting, polling locations or Election Day procedures is encouraged to contact the Montgomery County Clerk’s Office.