ACTION NEEDED: ACTIVATE YOUR POLL WATCHER STATUS NOW

Step 1: Verify & Refresh Your Account

• Brand New to Poll Watching?

• If you did not serve as a poll watcher in 2024, create an account at protectthevote.com. At the top menu select Volunteer enter your information and select Poll Watching, then create an account. If you have any issues please call or text me, Kathleen at 516-551-1301.

• For Returning 2024 Poll Watchers:

• Log in at: protectthevote.com using your 2024 email address. If you’ve already confirmed your account, you will notice you will be redirected to gopvolunteer.com and be able to see your dashboard.

• Login Issues: If you don't recall your password, click "Forgot Password." If the system says "Email Not Recognized," please call or text me at 516-551-1301 sometimes you have to be reactivated by the RNC.

Step 2: Register for Mandatory 2026 Training

• Once logged in, you will be redirected to your Volunteer Dashboard. From here, you can register for your required annual training:

• Select Training: Underneath the calendar on your dashboard view the upcoming training schedule and select one. Be sure to use the same email address across all platforms and register for the training class. You will receive an email from info@magamajorityforce.com to confirm your registration and obtain the schedule link. Look in your junk folder.

• Register & Sync: Select your preferred date, register, and add the session to your personal calendar with a reminder.

• Important: You must use the same email address used in Step 1.

• Finalize: Before your class ends note the link or take a picture of the QR code for reporting your poll watching data or incident report When you finish the class text Kathleen at 516-551-1301 so we can verify your certification with the Florida RNC Election Integrity team.

• Need a Different Training Option?

  While our online Zoom sessions are the most efficient way to get certified, we are proposing hosting two in-person sessions at the Southern Hills Conference Room (Fitness Center, 2nd Floor) for those who prefer hands-on instruction:

  • Thursday, 10/08 @ 2:00 PM

  • Thursday, 10/15 @ 6:00 PM

  • Please text Kathleen at 516-551-1301 if you plan to attend an in-person session so we can maintain an accurate headcount.

• Note: All training must be completed by the October 15th deadline to ensure your credentials are processed by the Hernando County SOE by October 20th 12PM.

STEP 3: Obtaining Your Credentials

Once you are trained and your name has been submitted to the Supervisor of Elections (SOE), they will verify your status.

• Watch your mail: Five to eight days before the election. You will receive an official letter from the Hernando County SOE with instructions for your badge.

• Pick up your badge: Follow the letter's instructions to pick up your official Poll Watcher badge at the Main Election Office: 16264 Spring Hill Dr, Brooksville, FL.

• Admittance: You must have this physical badge in your possession to be admitted to your polling place.

STEP 4: Schedule Your Poll Watcher Shift

• Platform: Return to your dashboard via protectthevote.com and you are redirected to gopvolunteer.com

• Status: We are currently finalizing the scheduling module for Hernando County. This feature is expected to go live shortly.

• Action: Once enabled, you will see an option on your dashboard to select your polling location and specific shift hours.

• Stay Tuned: As soon as the scheduling module is active, I will send a direct update to all trained watchers so you can secure your preferred precinct.

1. Review this important Poll Watcher Guide from your Supervisor of Elections, Denise LaVancher. It is a less technical document than the official state Polling Place Procedure Manual which includes statute and rule references. It is a great review after your training session.

2. Bring your Poll Watcher Checklist and Tabulator Page(s) with you to your shift(s). Each shift needs a separate Tabulator Page. Download/print them using the buttons below.