Archbishop Weisenburger backs poll chaplains

Archbishop Edward Weisenburger of the Archdiocese of Detroit supports the use of poll chaplains to protect voting rights during the 2026 midterm elections. Speaking at the Participation, Dignity, and Elections conference on Sept. 16, Weisenburger encouraged Catholics to be proactive in the democratic process by using nonpartisan poll watchers and chaplains.

Poll chaplains, also known as peacekeepers, serve in an unofficial capacity outside polling locations. These volunteers aim to provide nonpartisan election information, mediate tensions, and document instances of voter intimidation or attempts to infringe on voting rights.

Weisenburger stated that the Church has a theological mandate to assist voters, particularly in areas facing voter suppression or gerrymandering. While the role of a poll chaplain is not an official position within the Church or the government, Catholic organizations are currently participating in efforts to recruit and train individuals for these peacekeeping roles.