Credentialed poll watcher; authorize political party to be represented by during nonpartisan elections.

HB 1584 would allow registered political parties in Mississippi to have two credentialed poll watchers present at polling places during nonpartisan elections (where no candidates are running for office). Currently, only candidates on the ballot have this right; the bill would extend it to any registered party. Watchers must be authorized in writing by the party and cannot interfere with voting (e.g., no voter contact or handling ballots), though they may observe and challenge voter qualifications. The bill died in committee in February 2025 and never became law.