INDEPENDENCE, MO (KCTV) -
Elections wouldn't run without the volunteers who check your credentials, hand you your ballot and make sure votes are cast smoothly at local precincts.
At the Johnson County Election Board, election judge training is a standing room only event.
"I think that this election is particularly important for our country and I felt I wanted to be more of a part of it," said Leawood's Jim Ryan, who has been voting since 1958 but is volunteering for the first time as a poll worker. "I think we have to become more involved with the election process, and it's part of our civic duties."
There aren't enough Ryans across the state line in Jackson County. The Jackson County Election Board said they are at least 300 workers short of the people needed to assist at polling places on Nov. 6.
Some volunteers are wanting to work in specific areas, leaving shortages elsewhere.
"We do have certain shortages in certain areas: Raytown, Grandview, Lee's Summit," Tammy Brown of the Jackson County Election Board said. "We want qualified good judges to be there for our voters when they come in."
Expect a 15-hour day. You can receive $165 for your service. If you want to serve as an election judge in eastern Jackson County, click here.
The Kansas City Election Board could not be reached for comment. Click here to sign up for the Kansas City Election Board.
Miami County says it needs judges on the Democratic side. Platte County says it is taking names for backup emergency fill-ins and next year's training classes.
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