Seeking Lawyers for Election Assistance: Join Us in Ensuring a Fair Election Process
The American Bar Association (ABA) is rallying its members to safeguard the right to vote in the upcoming presidential election this fall. Led by the Task Force for American Democracy, established by former ABA President Mary Smith, the organization is actively engaged in efforts to promote trust in the electoral process and address current threats to the integrity of elections.
The Task Force recently embarked on a nationwide listening tour to gather input on enhancing public confidence in elections. Through their analysis, they have identified ways in which lawyers, as well as state and local bar associations, can contribute to safeguarding the electoral system. This includes encouraging voter participation, volunteering as poll workers, organizing educational programs on democracy and the rule of law, and more.
According to R. William “Bill” Ide, a past ABA president and vice chair of the task force, lawyers have a critical role to play in upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. Ide emphasizes the importance of lawyers standing up to protect the democratic process, stating that it is inherent in their professional duty.
Get Involved: Opportunities for Lawyers to Make a Difference
Working the Polls: The Standing Committee on Election Law, through its Poll Worker Esq. initiative, invites lawyers and legal professionals to volunteer as poll workers. By partnering with national organizations and state election directors, the ABA helps connect members with resources to serve in this crucial role on Election Day. Lawyers are well-suited for this responsibility due to their ability to interpret laws, manage conflicts, and ensure fair administration of elections.
Educating the Public: The Section of State and Local Government Law’s Defending Democracy initiative focuses on raising awareness about the essential role of election workers and enhancing transparency in the electoral process. Through tours of local election facilities and educational seminars, lawyers are equipped to better understand and explain the voting process to the public, fostering confidence in the system.
Defending the Right to Vote: The Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice’s Perfecting Democracy initiative seeks to recruit lawyers and law students to support nonpartisan organizations in protecting elections. Volunteers can engage in a variety of activities, including monitoring polls, providing voter assistance, combating online disinformation, and participating in voting rights litigation. By ensuring access to the ballot box and promoting fair elections, lawyers play a vital role in upholding democracy.
Protecting Election Officials: The Young Lawyers Division’s Public Service and Civic Engagement initiative encourages young lawyers to get involved in election-related work at the local level. Opportunities include serving as election workers, providing pro bono legal counsel to election officials facing threats or harassment, and participating in the Task Force for American Democracy. By defending election workers and ensuring their safety, lawyers contribute to the integrity of the electoral process.
Conclusion
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the ABA is calling on lawyers to join forces in safeguarding the democratic principles on which our nation is built. By actively participating in election assistance initiatives, lawyers can uphold the rule of law, protect the right to vote, and ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. Together, we can make a difference and uphold the integrity of our democracy for generations to come.
