Who are these election judges?

You might have wondered about the people who are serving as election judges in the upcoming general election. Where I live, the county clerk leads a governmental agency that's exemplary in running efficient and honest elections. The county's significant investment in new election technology has yielded good results. Ballots are secure and voting sites are readily available. The process for voting, tabulation and verification has been thoroughly vetted for its transparency and fraud-free elements. The clerk's philosophy and commitment is voter-centered in every way. Her staff members know what they're doing.

But what about the thousands of "ordinary citizens" who have decided to work as election judges? What about their qualifications? Their motivations, and their intentions?

In my experience, the folks who serve as election judges are worthy of respect and thanks. Primarily retired citizens, they bring to their work a variety of employment backgrounds, life experiences, leadership skills and political leanings.

Many of them have worked as judges for years. Whether seasoned or new workers, they have recently undergone hands-on training in the technologies and processes of voting. They're competent, intelligent and committed to this manifestation of our democracy.

Some carry out their responsibilities because it's part of their patriotism, their devotion to ideals that transcend partisanship. A good share of them are also people of faith, seeing these tasks as part of their engagement with the world God so surely loves.

They're honorable, honest and in these times, courageous. They offer their best selves to voters. They're our neighbors.

This invitation to you: When you vote this November, be grateful for these people - the county workers and the election judges - and offer them your respectful thanks.

Because you've voted, they'll thank you back.

Bob Sitze

Wheaton