Election observers (also called “poll watchers”) are people who can observe various stages of the electoral processEach state has its own laws and procedures regarding when and where observers can be present, as well as who can perform this task.
According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE), only party-appointed election observers are allowed inside polling places. However, anyone has the right to observe the election process from outside the polling place.
Enlace Latino NC spoke with Lucía Vigil, from Center for Studies for Democracy (CEPAD), a civil organization in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on this topic.
Vigil has participated in election observation exercises in his country and, although the electoral rules and procedures of Honduras and North Carolina are different, he explained that this work can be understood as a process that goes beyond what happens inside the ballot boxes.
About election observation
For Vigil, election observation is a “core exercise in active democracy that transcends differences between political parties.” According to the specialist, assuming this role involves actively learning about current electoral laws and regulations.
“Being consciously informed citizens, but also supporting the fight against misinformation, is a fundamental role that we can all assume from our homes and our communities,” Vigil said.
What does this mean for someone who wants to get involved in the electoral process in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, a person who wants to observe the electoral process It has different options depending on your level of participation.
Observe from outside the polling station
Anyone has the right to monitor the elections from outside the 50-foot voting zone. However, the NCSBE strictly prohibits interfering with voter privacy, photographing marked ballots, obstructing access to ballot boxes, or harassing voters and election officials.
Being an observer appointed by a political party
Individuals wishing to observe the electoral process from within a polling station must be designated by a political party. Observers may witness various electoral procedures, but they must respect the rules protecting voter privacy and not interfere with the voting.
Related: North Carolina Elections 2026: Where to report voting irregularities?
How to report irregularities if there is fear of retaliation?
If a citizen detects irregularities or violations during the process, the NCSBE has direct official channels. To contact the Board, call (919) 814-0700. You can also send an email to elections.sboe@ncsbe.gov.
However, when a voter or resident feels fear of retaliation or distrust in reporting directly to the authorities, Virgil advises relying on the community and independent network.
“The most important thing is to identify organizations or media outlets that are working on some of the documentation and some of the election records,” the expert explained.
One of these organizations is Democracy NC, a nonpartisan organization that coordinates a statewide Election Protection program. On its bilingual hotline 888-OUR-VOTE (888-687-8683), trained staff and volunteers answer questions, help resolve problems in real time, and document barriers to voting.
>>> To learn more about the powers and responsibilities of an election observer, please consult the NCSBE website.
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