Be a Democracy Hero – An Appropriate Role for Attorneys
By Stephen J. White, Section Pro Bono Chair
“The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.”
— Alexis de Tocqueville, “Democracy in America”
The proper functioning of our nation’s elections — unquestionably vital to our democracy’s health — largely depends on private citizens serving as poll workers. According to a recent article in the Raleigh News & Observer, due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, North Carolina is bracing for reduced participation among citizens typically willing to serve as poll workers. With the NC State Board of Elections (“SBE”) reporting an average age of 70 years among poll workers, this demographic clearly intersects with the population most vulnerable to the health impacts of COVID-19.
Our state’s 100 counties are in need of citizens willing to serve as poll workers for the 2020 general election season. The SBE has asked each of us North Carolinians to “Be a Democracy Hero” and consider applying to serve as a poll worker. Additional information concerning qualifications, duties, and an interest form for submission are available here. You can also contact your respective county’s board of elections directly for additional information and sign up, and the SBE has conveniently provided a statewide county map with local election board contact information.
The Preamble to the Rules of Professional Conduct, 27 NCAC 02 .01, addresses the role of attorneys in a democracy: “[A] lawyer should further the public’s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority.” Attorneys who are able to serve as poll workers serve the aspirational goal of the Preamble regarding our role in a constitutional democracy. The Administrative Law Section appreciates the chance to inform you about this opportunity and encourages Section members willing and able to sign up to assist with this year’s elections by serving as poll workers.