I just found out, from watching CSPAN, that the GOP in Ohio plans to have "Voting Challengers" at several polling places on Election day. These challengers can question anyone who comes to vote as to their age, whether they are voting in the right precinct, too young to vote or even eligible to vote. The Dems are planning to have people in place to monitor this activity.

I have found this article which also shows it is legal in Kentucky and may be used to intimidate people of colour. In that article, it seems the "challengers" cannot approach the person in question directly, but must go to the polling officials to challenge. From the CSPAN show, it was my impression this is not the case in Ohio; it sounded as though they could stop anyone coming to vote and question/challenge them.

1) I find it outrageous that this is legal. I think the county officials, polling officials, etc. should be the ones to verify someone's right to vote.

2) I am wondering if this is legal in all states, i.e. federally sanctioned, OR if it is only certain ones.

Have any of you ever heard of this or know more about it?

Thanks,

kat