Poll worker accused of making racist 'blackface' comment worked Harris County polls since 2013

The Harris County Sheriff deputies filed a criminal assault charge against poll worker Juanita Barnes Tuesday after a black voter reported Barnes made overtly racist remarks and assaulted her as the woman tried to vote on Nov. 6, 2018. Rolanda Anthony said Barnes told her she was loitering and bumped her shoulder. less The Harris County Sheriff deputies filed a criminal assault charge against poll worker Juanita Barnes Tuesday after a black voter reported Barnes made overtly racist remarks and assaulted her as the woman tried ... more Photo: Gabrielle Banks/Houston Chronicle Photo: Gabrielle Banks/Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 9 Caption Close Poll worker accused of making racist 'blackface' comment worked Harris County polls since 2013 1 / 9 Back to Gallery

The Harris County election judge who reportedly made racist comments to a black voter on Tuesday worked county polls for the past five years, an election official confirmed.

Juanita Barnes was sent home on Election Day after witnesses said she told a woman who was concerned about voter registration paperwork, "Maybe if I'd worn my blackface makeup today you could comprehend what I'm saying to you."

Barnes also allegedly bumped into the woman after the outburst, leading to an investigation by the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

Barnes is currently facing a Class C misdemeanor charge of assault by touching. If convicted, she could be issued a fine of up to $500.

READ MORE: Harris County poll worker charged with assault over 'blackface' incident

Harris County Chief Election's Officer Hector DeLeon told Chron.com Barnes had been "designated to work at various polling locations since 2013."

Barnes did not appear to have been flagged for previous bad behavior while working polls, which could have jeopardized her ability to get approved as a judge in future elections.

When asked how someone like Barnes ended up working for the Harris County Clerk's Office, DeLeon pointed to the appointment process:

"The Texas Election code provides the parameters which guide the designation and approval of the Election Day polling location Presiding and Alternate Judges," he said.

To be appointed as an election judge, political parties must submit a list of names for each precinct to be approved by the Harris County Commissioners Court.

Fernando Ramirez is a digital reporter for Chron.com and Houstonchronicle.com. Read him on our breaking news site and on our subscriber site. Follow him on Twitter at @fernramirez93 or email him at Fernando.ramirez@chron.com.