Brazil's 2026 Election Poll Workers Secure Voting Process

The Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE) confirmed that mesários – volunteer poll workers – will continue to perform essential duties in Brazil's 2026 general elections. They will staff the mesas receptoras de votos (MRVs), teams of citizens without ties to the Justice system, responsible for managing the voting flow, operating electronic voting machines, verifying voter identities, and maintaining order throughout the polling stations.

One volunteer, 45‑year‑old bank employee Carolina Carfero, has served as a mesária in three elections, rising to president of a voting table. She highlights the role’s challenges and rewards, noting that each day worked grants two days of leave and that the experience offers a direct contribution to democratic transparency.

In São Paulo, the regional electoral court (TRE‑SP) has introduced WhatsApp messaging to confirm participation from those who have not yet responded to email invitations. The official number (11) 3130‑2300 sends a verified blue‑check message offering three response options. To date, 389,612 potential mesários have been contacted, with 329,785 (about 81.8 %) confirming their availability. The messages detail the assigned duties, locations, dates, and provide contact information for further inquiries.