Reply #7: Probably the one thing that you should try to be clear about...

[The Backlash Cometh]

...is to know without question the rules of eligibility. Who is eligible to vote? Pay very close attention to each criteria. If you don't, after four hours of looking at names and hearing desperate explanations, you'll find yourself doubting your understanding of the rules. Also, if you do understand the rules well enough, it makes it easier to explain to the voter why you have to turn them away.

For example, be familiar with the precincts around you. Many times people assume that the location they're familiar with is their precinct, when it could really be just across the street. If you tell them it's just across the street, they'll get less upset. It also helps to know how to fill in those blue forms that directs them to the correct address, assuming they still use them. The form basically tips the other precinct that the voter has already stood in line and someone has already confirmed they're valid voters. Personally, I would just consider letting the person go to the front of the line, but still check him to double check his eligibility.

Those ladies checking people in were pretty awesome, where I last worked as a pollworker. It's a labor of love. But if there's a problem, you should have a troubleshooter with a laptop present to help you out.