Oceana County Canvass Observation

Since November 2020, the League of Women Voters of Michigan and their Pro-Democracy Partners have worked to be the public’s eyes and ears at Michigan’s county canvass of votes cast during an election. Each year they work together to ensure that trained volunteers observe County Board of Canvassers (BOC) meetings, across the state of Michigan, watching the process by which local results are reviewed and certified. This consistent, nonpartisan observation promotes transparency and accountability, helps identify potential issues that could put timely certification at risk, and reassures Board of Canvassers members and election staff that the public is engaged in their work. Should observation uncover anything beyond the canvassers’ ministerial, nondiscretionary duties, LWVMI can elevate the issue to the Secretary of State’s office or an election attorney. ### Your Role As An Observer: - Our BOC Observer are an important aspect of our volunteer election work! - Our observers not only serve to build trust in the community as well as between local government and the League, but they also help to ensure our elections are running as the laws intended. - Reporting from our observers helps us understand the health of our democratic systems, where issues are happening, and where things are running smoothly. - These insights are important to all of us working to support our democracy, and ultimately support our communities in ensuring their voices are heard! We hope you will join us, volunteer, and bring a friend to be a part of this election work! PS: Shifts are subject to change, as county clerks work to finalize the details of the county canvass. If your shift is cancelled, you will be contacted by a representative from the League of Women Voters.