NC Officials Promise Voter Access Amid Helene Devastation
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Hurricane Helene has brought considerable challenges for election officials, who are working to ensure citizens in affected areas can still vote in the upcoming election. The destruction in western North Carolina is unprecedented and has created uncertainty so close to Election Day. To aid voters, the State Board of Elections has created a webpage with relevant information and advice, and is working to figure out how to accommodate displaced voters, lost or damaged voter IDs, and potentially damaged voting sites, as well as figuring out how to adjust voting deadlines if necessary.
Voter guidance issued by State Board of Elections for Hurricane Helene-hit areas
Karen Brinson Bell, the executive director of the North Carolina Board of Elections, expresses personal grief over the devastation left by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. She reassures that despite the obstacles, this crucial election will proceed, and the Board is committed to ensuring all eligible voters can participate.
The aftermath of Helene brought about significant challenges for the electoral process. However, Bell emphasizes the resilience of the people and the election officials serving them, drawing a parallel with the successful electoral response amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the unprecedented destruction brought on by the hurricane, Bell maintains faith in the Board, which has previously won multiple national awards for its stewardship of elections. She guarantees safety for election boards and poll workers and promises that all eligible voters will be able to cast their ballots in the upcoming election.
Guidelines for Voters affected by Hurricane Helene
Around 1.2 million registered voters reside in the 25 counties in the disaster zone. The Board created a webpage that provides all necessary information related to the election for those impacted by Helene. Additionally, election officials recommended using the voter search tool for checking registration status.
The Board is making efforts to restore the ten election offices closed due to the hurricane. Voters are urged to verify their absentee ballots’ status through the state’s tracking portal.
Registration and Voting
Those who lost their Voter ID due to the storm can fill out the voter ID exception form.
Voters can register online via the Department of Motor Vehicles website until Oct. 11. In-person registration is also available during the Early Voting period from Oct. 17. Displaced voters can register using their home address.
Early Voting Sites and Poll Workers
Early voting starts on Oct. 17, and despite the storm’s aftermath, the Board is optimistic about opening early voting in all counties. The Board is also confident about the availability of sufficient poll workers for the election.
Potential Deadline Adjustments
Possible adjustments to certain voting deadlines are being assessed. The state law presently requires absentee ballots to be returned by 7:30 PM on Election Day to be considered valid.
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