Mississippians whose absentee ballots are rejected because of a signature issue must now be given the opportunity to correct the problem. Alcorn County Circuit Clerk Crystal Starling says it will increase their workload some.
“Within 24 hours we’ll have to contact the absentee voter by first phone call, email then certified mail as a last resort if we can’t get a hold of them,” said Starling
The change is part of an agreement between the secretary of state’s office and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. The attorneys filed a lawsuit to expand absentee voting because of the coronavirus. The case was dismissed this week in federal court. But they agreed to absentee ballot signature corrections and curbside voting for people with COVID 19 symptoms. Jackson County Election Commissioner Danny Glaskox says they’re prepared.
“We have the TFX touch screen machines and we can take them out to them,” said Glaskox. “Then you have to clean the machine right?” said Frazier. “No, No, No. We’re asking everyone to wear food services gloves. It doesn’t matter who you are,” said Glaskox.“
Glaskox says they’ll provide gloves and masks for voters. He says poll workers must wear masks and face shields and they’re instructed to sanitize anything touched by a voter. Amite County Circuit Clerk Celeste McIntyre says on election day, they’ll have a sign posted directing people with coronavirus symptoms not to enter the precinct but they can vote.
“We also have a sign included that will have a phone number on it. They can call and have someone come out to help them vote,” said McIntyre.
Curbside voting has always been available in Mississippi. This change makes it official that people with COVID 19 symptoms can vote. In a statement the secretary of state’s office says they’re working to ensure it's as safe as possible for people to cast their ballot on November 3.
