Georgia poll watchers vs. monitors: What they can — and can’t — do

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — When you go to vote, you may see people watching outside the polling place or observing election staff inside. They may be a poll watcher or monitor. Poll watchers work inside, wearing an official badge with their name. They are trained and certified by the political party or candidate who appointed them. Under Georgia law, they can sit or stand as close as practical to observe — but cannot hear private voter information like birthdays or driver’s license numbers. Full election results hereA poll monitor stays outside the voting area, watching for issues like long lines. Monitors are members of the public and do not need an appointment or badge. Both face strict rules. A poll watcher cannot be a candidate on that ballot. They cannot see your marked ballot, talk to voters, interfere with staff, electioneer, or carry weapons within 150 feet of the polls. Full election day coverage from Atlanta News FirstIf a watcher interferes, poll workers have author