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1. What are election judges?

Election judges are responsible for the administration of election procedures in each poling place on Election Day. Election judges help guarantee that the rights of voters are protected on Election Day. Become a member of this proud team working to guarantee the election process is fair and in accordance with our laws. Election judges are vital to efficient and honest elections.

2. What are some of the duties of election judges?

Duties are:
- Set up for 7 a.m. opening of the polls
- Aid voters signing into the precinct
- Distribute ballots to voters
- Monitor precinct ballot counter
- Register new voters
- Help voters who require assistance
- Process absentee ballots
- Record and certify vote totals

3. Who is eligible to be an election judge?

An election judge must be:

1. Eligible to vote in the State of Minnesota;

2. Able to read, write and speak English;

3. Appointed by the City Council and;

4. Trained and currently certified as an election judge. Party balance must be maintained within each polling place. Minnesota election law requires that not more than one half of the judges in a polling place belong to the same major political party.

4. What are student election judges?

Sixteen- and 17-year-old students can work as election judge trainees. It's a great way to learn about elections and voting and earn cash at the same time! You will be assigned the same duties as other judges, with the exception of tasks requiring party affiliation. You will need to attend and complete the same training as other judges. You cannot be asked to work past 10 p.m. 

Edina has for several years used students as election judges in their polling places. Student judges must be U.S. citizens; at least 16 years of age; serve in the county in which they reside; be enrolled in a Minnesota high school or be home schooled; be in good academic standing; and have written permission from their school and parents.

5. Are election judges paid?

Yes, election judges are paid an hourly wage. State law allows time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an election judge with 20 days prior notice to the employer. The City Clerk can provide an employer's notification letter to persons to use with their employer. Judges work at either or both the Primary election and General election.

6. How are judges selected?

Appointments are made by the City Clerk, depending on the needs for each election, and approved by the City Council. Each precinct has a voting place staffed by a board of up to 12 election judges.

7. How are election judges trained?

Judges are required to attend a state mandated, two-hour training class. Judges are paid to attend the class. Several classes are conducted by City election staff at City Hall during the day and in the evening.

City Hall is located at:

4801 W 50th Street

Edina, MN 55424