By Dayanara Gamez

   Behind the scenes of every election, there are people who work tirelessly to ensure that every vote is counted fairly and accurately. 

   Junior Taylor Conley worked at the polls on Election Day on Nov. 8 and helped community members cast their ballots.

   Poll workers are essential to the election process. They are responsible for setting up polling locations, verifying voter eligibility, distributing ballots, counting votes and assisting voters. 

   When asked about her favorite part of the experience, Taylor said that she enjoyed handing the ballots to voters and listening to their various stories. For example, Taylor said that one voter flew back from Greece just to cast their ballot on time. 

   Taylor also appreciated the opportunity to help many people in the community who may not otherwise have been able to come and participate in the voting process, including parents, the elderly and illiterate siblings.  

   Taylor hopes to work at the polls on future election days. She said, “The whole day taught me a lot about the U.S. election process and gave me a huge amount of respect for election workers who keep coming back every election.” She added that it would be great to see more young people working at the polls and even showing up to vote, as it tremendously impacts  elections. 

   By voting, citizens make their voices heard and help shape the future of their country. It is a powerful way to make a difference and ensure that the government meets the needs of the  people.   

   Taylor learned about the election system by working at the polls because she saw first-hand how the counting and transportation of ballots and results depended on the inspector and two judges from different political parties.