NORTHSTATE, Calif. — In the blue state of California, Shasta County stands out as a conservative majority, with a portion of citizens who are skeptical of the voting process.

Election observers have rights that are recognized by the Shasta County Elections Office, on their website they say “Observers are part of the security of every election.”

With this election monitoring responsibility comes rules and regulations that must also be followed during all processes, including election procedures and polling station activities on election day.

Observers can observe the following events:

• Logic testing and accuracy
• Training of electoral workers
• Early voting
• Mail Ballot Processing
• Election day
• Official cloth
• Post-election audits
• Certified voting statement

Observable procedures include:

• The opening of the ballot boxes
• Voting during the day
• Closing the ballot boxes

It is important that observers are quiet and do not disturb board members and voters. Observers may inspect the posted copy of the index at the convention of the board.

Observers MAY do the following:

• Take notes
• Ask questions
• Monitor procedures related to electoral processes, including election planning and preparation, voting, post-election audit, etc.

Observers CANNOT do the following:

• It intervenes in the work done
• View petition signatures or come within 20 feet of the staff working on those items
• Use electronic devices, take videos or photos while observing election processes
• Touch any materials or equipment
• Sit at an election staff desk or workspace
• Display any election materials or wear campaign badges, buttons or clothing
• Wear the uniform of a peace officer, private security guard, or security personnel
• Distracting election staff from their duties

If these rules are not followed, then the observer may be asked to leave.