Pollwatchers Guide
Pollwatchers may represent candidates, political parties, civic organizations and organized groups of proponents or opponents of referenda. They are allowed to observe the conduct of the election and to find out who has voted. The following guide is designed to help pollwatchers and others who want to become more familiar with the basic responsibilities of pollwatchers and the important role they play.
Pollwatchers Rights and Limitations
Illinois Statutes provide for pollwatchers to be present in the polling place on election day. Pollwatchers are allowed to be present in the Polling Place while the polls are being opened, around 5:15 a.m., during polling hours, and while the polls are being closed at 7:00 p.m. Pollwatchers are intended to observe the conduct of the election and their prime concern is the integrity and fairness of the election. Please see the following document for information on the rights and limitations of being a pollwatcher.
Pollwatcher Rights and Limitations
Pollwatcher Credentials
Each Pollwatcher must have credentials issued by the election authority, and these credentials must be presented by the pollwatcher to the election judges immediately upon entering the polling place. Separate credentials are needed for each precinct within a polling place and are valid for the entire day. In order to observe closing procedures, a Pollwatcher must be inside the polling place before 7:00 p.m. The following form may be printed out for your use or you may request a form at our office.