UMLC Issues Election Judge Advisory
The Upper Midwest Law Center (UMLC) issued a formal advisory to the public, raising concerns about potential lapses in the inclusion of party-balanced election judges during the early voting process in Minnesota. The advisory comes in response to concerns from the public regarding the implementation of new early voting procedures that could compromise the integrity of the election process.
UMLC’s advisory highlights the statutory requirements for election judges’ involvement in early voting, particularly in procedures such as physical assistance in marking ballots, curbside voting, and resolving voter registration challenges. The advisory emphasizes that, under Minnesota law, only party-balanced election judges can perform the described duties to ensure a fair and transparent process during early voting. UMLC expressed concern that these legal requirements may not be consistently upheld, potentially affecting the integrity of early voting across the state.
“We are concerned that recent changes in Minnesota’s early voting procedures may have created confusion about long-standing requirements that party-balanced election judges perform certain tasks no matter the timing,” said James Dickey, UMLC Senior Counsel. “Ensuring the presence of such judges is essential to maintaining the integrity of our elections and protecting the rights of all Minnesotans. We urge all election officials to adhere strictly to the law and ensure that these critical safeguards are in place.”
UMLC encourages any election officials or members of the public with questions or concerns about early voting procedures to contact UMLC or seek legal counsel.
