SOUTH DAKOTA – The American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota is encouraging residents to become trained election observers ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.
The organization plans to place volunteer observers at polling locations in Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls on Election Day. According to the ACLU, observers are trained to monitor and document issues such as voter intimidation, accessibility concerns, long lines, ballot shortages, and challenges to voter registration.
ACLU South Dakota Advocacy Manager Samantha Chapman said election observers help promote transparency and discourage misconduct at polling places. The organization is offering training sessions this month in multiple cities as well as online for those interested in volunteering.
Chapman also pointed to several recent changes to South Dakota election laws, including provisions affecting voter eligibility and procedures for challenging a voter’s citizenship status. She said observers can help ensure voters understand their rights and that elections are conducted fairly.
The ACLU deployed 40 trained observers during the 2024 general election and reported that polling locations were administered fairly. Early voting for the Nov. 3 general election is already underway.
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