Republican state lawmakers are giving partisan poll watchers new powers, setting off alarms about potential voter intimidation.

Bills in several states would grant new authority to poll watchers — who work on behalf of candidates and political parties — to observe voters and election workers. Critics say it could lead to conflict and chaos at polling places and an improper targeting of voters of color.

In Texas, a measure under consideration by the Republican-controlled legislature would grant partisan poll watchers the right to videotape voters as they receive assistance casting their ballots.

Meanwhile, in Georgia, the state’s controversial new voting law makes it explicit that any Georgian can challenge the…