[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 14]
[Senate]
[Page 19239]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO ELECTION JUDGES

  Mr. DAYTON. Mr. President, I am pleased today to pay tribute to those 
Americans who play a very special role in our democracy, the citizens 
who volunteer to serve as election judges. They work at the polls on 
Election Day, safeguarding our most precious right as Americans, the 
right to choose our leaders whom we then trust to govern, legislate on 
our behalf, and protect our rights and freedoms. Having received 
training in election laws and rules, judges open and close the polls, 
making a formidable commitment of time, energy, and stamina to work all 
day, often from before dawn until after dark. Some judges must promise 
to remain inside the polling place all day. They distribute ballots, 
tend to ballot boxes, count ballots, strictly adhering to prescribed 
procedures to ensure secrecy and accuracy of election materials. The 
judges process absentee ballots, help voters who require assistance, 
register new voters, and make certain that only qualified voters are 
permitted to vote. Recent history has taught us, all too dramatically, 
how important this process of validation is.
  To undertake this form of volunteer service is truly to exercise 
one's civic responsibility while also facilitating that right and duty 
for one's fellow citizens. While voters with strong party interests 
might be drawn to the position, a judge's job is not to influence 
voters. To be an election judge is to be a citizen-activist on a very 
basic, very human level. The activities of a judge, although routine, 
figure among the most rewarding and meaningful that an ordinary citizen 
can perform. Older Americans, especially retirees, regard it as a 
welcome way to keep in touch with what's happening in the broader 
community and to connect with their neighbors.
  Election judges are people of character and dedication. The official 
functions they pledge to perform are honorable and indispensable to our 
society. On Election Day, November 5th, many thousands of fine 
Americans will invest their time by fulfilling the role of election 
judge. We are most fortunate to have these conscientious citizens. I am 
proud to express my appreciation for their valuable service which makes 
our form of government work.

                          ____________________