ANKENY, Iowa — John Olsen has been processing ballots as an election worker for almost two decades. During his tenure, he has worked every local, midterm and presidential election.
Olsen's nickname is "Dr. Vote," just because of how obsessed he is with elections. While his love for elections has never faltered he’s seen public trust towards elections decrease.
He has been a poll worker since 2008. Olsen wanted to get involved because he values the democratic process, a value his mom instilled in him.
“The vote is the ultimate expression of America,” Olsen said. “Our country without the vote would be under a dictatorship.”
In recent years, he said he’s noticed more distrust towards the election process.
“I take it personal when they question the integrity of somebody in Arizona or somebody in Michigan,” John said. “Nobody's stuffing ballots. That's why you have Republicans and Democrats working together at the polls.”
But, Olsen said, that’s not necessarily the case for Iowa voters.
“I must’ve gotten several 100 thank you's the past few days from when I was poll working,” he said.
Still, he wants people to know that all ballots cast are always double-checked.
“There's always two eyes on everything and you work with somebody,” Olsen said. “You trust them, and they've made the system so it's reliable all across the country.”
He plans to continue to be an election worker for the foreseeable future.
“As long as we can preserve this democratic republic and we have elections, I'll be happy to participate,” Olsen said.
From now until election day, he will be talking with people to make sure they have a plan to vote. On election day he will be working at the Ankeny Christian Church, which will likely be a 14-hour day.