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Montgomery Co. faces election worker shortage

**Montgomery County Seeks Urgent Help to Staff Polling Places for March 5 Primary**

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – Montgomery County elections officials are making an urgent appeal for hundreds of volunteers to staff polling locations for the upcoming March 5 primary election, warning that a continued shortage could lead to consolidated polling places and longer wait times for voters.

Elections Administrator Suzie Cast recently informed the Commissioners Court that the county is still in dire need of approximately **230 election judges and clerks** to ensure smooth operations for the crucial primary election. This significant shortfall is not a new issue, identified as a chronic problem often linked to an aging volunteer workforce and a general reluctance from younger residents to commit to what can be a demanding role, especially amidst heightened political tensions seen in recent election cycles.

“We are at a critical juncture where the number of available workers directly impacts our ability to deliver accessible and efficient elections for every Montgomery County voter,” Cast stated during her address to the Commissioners Court. “These dedicated individuals are the backbone of our democratic process, and without them, the integrity and accessibility of our elections are at risk.”

The commitment for election workers means a long day, typically starting at 6 a.m. and extending past 7 p.m. or later, depending on the close of polls and tabulation, at one of the county’s 119 polling locations. Election Judges, who oversee the entire process at a precinct, are compensated $150 for their service. Election Clerks, who assist with voter check-ins, equipment operation, and general voter assistance, receive $125 for the day. Both roles require a mandatory two-hour training session to ensure all procedures are followed correctly and consistently.

To be eligible, applicants must be registered voters in Montgomery County and cannot be candidates on the ballot or closely related to one.

Cast emphasized that a continued shortage could force the consolidation of polling places, a measure that could lead to increased congestion, longer wait times, and ultimately create hurdles for residents trying to cast their ballots. “Our primary goal is to make voting as convenient and straightforward as possible,” Cast explained. “Consolidating polling places is a last resort that we hope to avoid, but it becomes a necessity if we don’t have enough personnel.”

The March 5 primary election is the first major electoral event of 2024, with early voting having concluded on March 1. The voter registration deadline for the primary was February 5. The county will also need extensive staffing for the November general election later this year.

Montgomery County is actively recruiting interested individuals. Registered voters looking to contribute directly to the democratic process and serve their community are encouraged to find more information and apply directly at **ElectionWorkers.MCTX.org**.

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