Sheriff Sounds Alarm: Officials Risking Violations of Election Law

A Republican sheriff in Maryland has raised concerns about potential violations of state election laws due to what he sees as an imbalance in the representation of political parties among election judges.

In a letter to the Talbot County Board of Elections, Sheriff Joseph J. Gamble noted complaints from residents regarding the disparity, with 62 Democratic judges compared to 50 Republican judges. “This disparity indicates that registered Republican voters are not equally represented,” he stated.

Despite his claims, local and state officials have pushed back against the allegations. The sheriff emphasized that maintaining the integrity of the electoral process is crucial and highlighted that election judges are trained to operate in a nonpartisan manner.

Election judges play a vital role in facilitating the voting process, ensuring that voters are registered and able to cast their ballots in a smooth environment. Maryland has faced challenges in recruiting sufficient election judges, who receive training before working on election day. In Talbot County, those who complete the required training can earn $100, with additional pay ranging from $100 to $300 depending on their role.

According to Maryland state law, each polling place should have an equal number of judges from both the majority and principal minority parties. If necessary, a local board can appoint non-affiliated or minor party judges.

The sheriff reassured citizens that his office would be conducting security checks at polling places to ensure a safe election process. He urged the Board of Elections to adhere to Maryland law, stating, “Talbot County residents need to know that the law is being followed.”

In response, Board of Elections Director Erin DeMarinis contended that ensuring security at polling places is the responsibility of the election judges, and law enforcement typically must follow their guidance. She reaffirmed that voters can trust their ballots will be counted and that local and state election boards are acting within the law.