LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Fayette County Clerk's Office announced on August 11 that it is joining the U.S. Election Assistance Commission in recognizing National Poll Worker Recruitment Day and actively seeking eligible residents to serve as poll workers for the upcoming 2026 general election.

Fayette County Clerk Susan Lamb said in a statement that poll workers are essential to conducting free and fair elections. "By signing up to serve as a poll worker, you can make a difference in our community and help facilitate free and fair elections right here in Fayette County," Lamb said.

The U.S. Election Assistance Commission established National Poll Worker Recruitment Day to address a continued need for poll workers nationwide. Interested residents can apply online at govote.ky.gov, the state's voter registration portal.

Poll workers will perform duties including setting up polling places, greeting voters, verifying voter registrations, and issuing ballots. They also explain voting procedures and demonstrate how voting machines work. Those who complete required training and work a full shift on Election Day can earn up to $260.

To qualify as a poll worker, applicants must be registered voters who will be at least 18 years old by the November 3, 2026, general election. Candidates on the ballot, and their immediate family members, cannot serve in precincts where they are running. Additionally, poll workers cannot change their voter registration party affiliation after December 31 prior to a primary election or after August 11 before the general election.

Lamb emphasized the importance of early recruitment despite the election being several months away. "Although the November election is still a few months away, we want to spread the word that we are in need of poll workers," she said. More information about poll worker positions is available at fayettekyclerk.gov/elections.