Voter Protection Program
Our program has been helping Philadelphia voters with problems on Election Day for over 100 years. Every Election Day we work for elections to be administered properly and fairly.
It was more than 100 years ago, in 1905, when we sent our first volunteer poll watchers to voting places to help ensure fair and free elections. The oldest election protection program in America is still going strong. Safeguarding elections is why we were founded, and we have done it at every election since.
We train hundreds of nonpartisan volunteers before elections. On Election Day, these volunteers, under the direction of our staff, act as watchdogs either in the field or behind the scenes. Field volunteers -- more than 800 hit the streets for the April 2008 Pennsylvania primary -- randomly visit hundreds of polling places to ensure that proper procedures are followed, investigate public complaints, and report irregularities. Other volunteers operate our Election Day Hotline from the time polls open until they close, taking calls from Philadelphians -- who may have questions about the conduct of polling-place officials or may just need to know where to go to vote. It's a great way to make a real impact.
Our involvement in the electoral process goes far beyond its Election Day activities. Year-round, our staff keeps the public informed by answering questions about voting rights, the political process, and the function of various government offices. We provide nonpartisan information to all potential candidates, too, about the laws governing electoral campaigns. In addition, we monitor all federal, state, and local election laws and procedures. Our legal and legislative experts participate in panels to study election reforms, advocate specific legislative changes, and testify in government hearings. After more than a century, it's still all about ensuring fair elections, informed voters, and honest officials.
For more information or to volunteer click here.
Click here to view our Election Reports
Click here to see photos from recent elections.