Bilingual judges also wanted
Monday, February 06, 2006
Cook County Clerk David Orr is looking to recruit 2,000 new election judges needed to work during the March 21, 2006 primary election.
“This year, judges will play a vital role in an historic election,” Orr said. “It is critical that we have a full complement of judges to make sure that the election is carried out fairly, honestly, and accurately. Having enough judges also helps Election Day run more smoothly.”
Beginning with the primary election, Cook County will use a dual voting system. Voters will have a choice of voting either an optical scan paper ballot, similar to a standardized test, or on an electronic touch-screen machine, which is similar to an ATM.
More than 12,000 Democratic and Republican election judges are needed to fully staff the 2,386 precincts in suburban Cook County every election. Ideally, five judges work in each precinct.
The Clerk's office is also in need of bilingual judges who can assist voters.
Election judges open polling places, certify that voters are registered and qualified to vote, explain election procedures, issue ballots and activate cards for touch screens, operate election equipment, and transmit the votes at the end of the day.
Election judges receive a total of $150 for their work. That includes $100 for working Election Day and $50 for attending a three-hour training session prior to the election. Judges begin work at 5:15 a.m. and work until the polling place votes are transmitted after the polls close at 7 p.m.
To qualify as an election judge, you must be a registered voter and live in Cook County. People interested in serving on Election Day can call (312) 603-0965 to sign up or by completing an online application at www.voterinfonet.com.