A Poll Watcher is a person appointed to observe the conduct of an election on behalf of:
- a candidate,
- a political party, or
- the proponents or opponents of a measure (specific-purpose political action committees). Tex Elec Code §§ 33.001.
Poll watchers help ensure fair elections, but there are rules in place to protect your privacy as a voter:
- If you’re being assisted by someone, such as a family member or an interpreter, poll watchers are not allowed to be near you at that time.
- Poll watchers must stay in designated areas and are not allowed to access private voter information.
If you have any concerns about poll watchers while voting, election officials are there to help and ensure your rights are protected.